Editor’s note: This story was written by a high school student in Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation’s Summer Youth Leadership Program. This story is part of a special back-to-school issue.
By Branden Wang
SYLP STUDENT
Branden Wang
What is the meaning of success? That is a hard question to answer because everybody has a different definition. Other people think my father is successful because he is a great cardiac surgeon and has saved many lives. Other people think my grandfather is successful because he has a great and loyal son. Other people think my little cousin is successful because she has the best grades in her class.
When I was 13 years old, other people thought that I was successful because I went to one of the best middle schools in China and studied with intelligent people.
But my father thinks that he is not successful because he does not have a Ph.D. My grandpa thinks that he wasn’t able to give his family a better life. My little cousin thinks she is weak in math. I think I am not successful because my English is not good enough.
Each person’s criteria for success are different.
But let us see how the dictionary defines the meaning of success. “The achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted.” That definition is really close to mine. I think that if you can reach your dream or goal, you are successful. And this goal changes as you get older.
In school, when you get good grades and enjoy school life, that is success. As adults, when we get a good job, that is success. When you are old and look back and feel proud of your life, that is success.
Maybe you have a lot of money, a big house, and a cool car. But you don’t feel happy and can’t enjoy your life. That is not success. So be clear on what your goals are and try to reach them. Just do it. Be a successful person. ♦