Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Gratitude
As I look back through the pathway of time I envision my diverse upbringing. I see the many places I have lived, the many schools that I have attended and most importantly, every experience that has changed my life for the better. I can honestly say that being able to attend Brigham Young University has been the most important life changing experience that I have been blessed to go through. Since I was old enough to understand what BYU had to offer in terms of education and environment, it has been my dream to attend said University. Ever since this dream has become a reality, my expectations of everything here at BYU has either been met or surpassed. This also applies to the student body. But sadly enough I have met some students who have yet to understand what it is exactly they are in possession of. The total disregard for rules and their complacency with only doing enough to barely pass their classes is indicative of a person who has yet to come to grips with the reality of their situation. They have been accepted into a prestigious University that many rejectees would have done anything for the chance at what it is we are experiencing. The potential for greatness for a person who is able to attend Brigham Young University has been exponentially increased. I would hope that those whom I speak of will come to realize that being at BYU is a privilege and not a right.
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4 comments:
Your topic seems a little broad. What exactly is it that you think these students need to change? Is it their disregard for the honor code? Their lazy attitude towards school? I think your paper might be more focused and easier to write about if you just narrowed your focus a little.
I agree with all the points you have made, many BYU students just don't realize what they have here. But I also agree with Kristy, maybe try to narrow your points down to just a few and be more specific with them.
I found myself falling into some of the habits you outlined of these students that really don't realize what opportunity they have at BYU. Make sure you address exactly what it is that these students need to change.
I agree--narrowing will help.
What you'll also want to do is think about the rhetorical situation. It's rather similar to the example in the supplemental guide--you're trying to convince an audience who thinks they're doing right that they're doing wrong. You also want to think about the venue, and who you are as a speaker--a fellow student. A bishop giving a talk on Sunday can be a lot more upfront on disregard for rules. If you're not careful, the people you're criticizing might think you're being self-righteous, better-than-thou. I think this is an important editorial to write, because we do need more gratitude. Just consider your rhetorical situation.
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