Zero the Hero by Ashley

Zero the Hero by Ashley - October 2025 Scholarship Essay

Hector Zeroni, the man of the hour, though in his early days, he couldn't see his bright future ahead. Living a tough life as a child, Hector, known as 'Zero', had to learn young that sometimes life isn't fair. He grew up alone, having to fend for himself, often going unnoticed. With one hasty, almost unconscious decision, his life changed forever. Finding himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, his decision manifested into a future he could have never imagined.

I was very young when I first read Holes. It shocked me that someone could grow up in a life like Zero's. It brought to light an ugly reality that I didn't want to face. The reader learns of Zero's past and his tough breaks, then can understand the desire he felt when he snatched the sneakers and ran. It's a feeling most have experienced. You feel sorry when Zeroni is taken away, but when he meets Stanley in the camp, you learn of his courage, his determination, and his kindness, despite the tragedies he has endured.

Hector Zeroni taught me at a young age, to be grateful for what I have been given in my life. Too many of life's daily gifts are taken for granted. To compliment the gratitude, he taught me patience and understanding. Nothing is what it seems. No matter what someone has been through, there is always hope. More often than not, people will surprise you if you give them the chance. Even more often than that, they are dying to be given that chance.

Encouragement is a powerful tool that everyone is capable of using. It can help so many people in the most unexpected ways. Encouragement comes in many forms. The easiest form I have found is a smile. Look someone in the eyes and smile at them. It may be in passing through the entrance at a grocery store, or perhaps greeting the order taker at McDonald’s instead of instantly barking off your order. The smallest actions make the biggest impressions.

The final lesson I hope everyone remembers, is to never take away someone's hope, because it may be all they have left. I encourage others to step up when it may be uncomfortable. The help and guidance you give someone today, could impact a multitude of lifetimes.