Persistence - is a particular kind of intentional ignorance

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Persistence - is a particular kind of intentional ignorance.

Let me explain.

When I reached my 16th birthday, I was finally (legally) able to apply for my first official part-time job.

In my small town, there was a main street - along which most of the businesses (shops, stores, restaurants, etc.) could be found.

I started at one end of town - and walked the length of the main street - stopping at each business that I thought might hold a job opportunity for me.

Then I crossed the street - and begin walking back the other side.

At almost every stop - the answer was a clear "nothing available".

At a few, they allowed me to fill out an application.

For weeks, I walked the street, in both directions - and visited the same businesses - again, and again.

Many might be discouraged by the constant rejections.

An important lesson learned came from the reaction of the manager of the McDonald's - who sincerely apologized - that he did not have a job for me - as he expressed a great appreciation for my persistence. 

It was in this way - that I was encouraged - not discouraged.

Eventually, I did find that first part-time job. A job that taught me to work fast, efficiently, accurately. I was fortunate to have a good mentor/trainer. The specific skills required for that first job - have proven useful/beneficial - even unto this very day.

Thankfully , I never lost the ignorance of my persistence.

 

Character is revealed - by what you do - not just what you say

  [my internal response to someone who failed to do something they said they would do for me. I rarely ask anyone - for anything. But when I do ask - it is because it is important to me]

I pity people who tell me they are going to do something that I have asked them to do - and then they do not do it.

They have demonstrated a deep chasm in their character.

They have demonstrated that they are unreliable.

They have also closed the door to obtaining my help/assistance in the future.

I may forgive - but I never forget.

2023 Mensa Foundation Scholarship - Essay Judging for 68 applicants

 

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This week I am reviewing and scoring scholarship essays for 68 applicants.

It is humbling to read of the challenges that some of these young students have overcome - the sacrifices and effort they (and their families) have made - and the grit and determination they demonstrate by their actions - to achieve their goals of a better future - through self-improvement & education.

Thanks to Michelle Rakshys for inviting me back for this year's essay judging.

This is my fourth year as a local Scholarship Essay Judge for the Western Washington Region of Mensa - as part of the Mensa Education and Research Foundation scholarship program.