Never Give Up: Keep Going When Life Gets Tough

Naomi Frischman, fourth place

“Perseverance is the act of continuing to move forward, even when you want to give up.” -Rachel Scott My father and I were inseparable until I was three, but unfortunately, drugs pulled my father back into addiction.

This led to a strained relationship between us for the next nine years.

However, he enrolled in a treatment program and successfully got sober. His commitment and sobriety helped us rebuild our relationship, and we became closer than ever. Tragically, he passed away in an accident while at work in 2023. Coping with his loss and depression has been highly challenging, but I take inspiration from his journey to success. His memory and voice motivate me to never give up and persevere no matter what life throws at me.

Reflecting on this time with my father, I’ve learned perseverance is the most important value to live by. It pushes you not to accept failure as the last hope, as well as it gives you something to work on. Whether you’re doing this for yourself or a loved one, setting a goal and refusing to fail when it’s hard is the most valuable achievement. Proving to yourself that you can make it through the most challenging times in your life feels good for you, and others around you will recognize your hard work. My story has given me a reason to keep pushing when I want to give up. It’s given me a voice and a reason to want to succeed, no matter how challenging. Most importantly, it encouraged me to refuse failure to make my father proud.

Perseverance is my law to live by. When I was younger, I accepted failure. I would tell myself I didn’t want to go through it anymore and quit trying. I’d stop working through my problems, and get stubborn when others tried to help me. My father and I’s story made me realize failing isn’t the answer. I push myself through the worst time to make him proud. Looking back at how I would act when I didn’t want to make it, helps me realize that pushing yourself through failure will be the most help you can get. “Perseverance is the act of continuing to move forward, even when you want to give up.” -Rachel Scott, this quote is beyond meaningful to me. It sums up the act of perseverance. It tells you that even when you don’t want to keep pushing what life throws at you, you don’t stop trying. Starting by persevering for yourself, will slowly make you stronger, and show others that you won’t accept hurt and failure. Pushing through things other people possibly can’t, is the greatest achievement. I now know that he will always be there for me, helping me through everything. I know I have a reason to succeed, and I know that I’ll be able to make it through with him. Whether it’s from up close, or far away, I know he’ll always be my biggest supporter. He’s my best friend no matter the circumstances. He’s my reason.