Giving Grace by Lauren

Giving Grace by Lauren - April 2026 Scholarship Essay

Often when I am struggling in life, I give myself grace. Whether I failed my test or fell into a depressive episode, I always allow myself space to breathe and refocus on work. However, when other people mess up, I become very angry with them. If a car pulls out in front of me, I roll my eyes and hope there are better drivers in the world. When a partner refuses to contribute work for our presentation, I wish the assignment could've been without a group.

A few months ago, I realized hating others was causing an internal conflict. When a car was going too slow in front of me, I started complaining. However, I randomly thought of the first time I drove on the twisty roads of the Appalachian Mountains. I was a scared 15-year-old girl who was not used to the bumpy, curvy roads. I went 10-15 miles below the speed limit and annoyed all the seasoned drivers behind me.

Recalling this memory changed something in me. I have no idea what other people are going through. That car that pulled out in front of me might be late for work or their child's birthday party. Those slow drivers in front of me could be new drivers or have a newborn baby in the car. My partners who refuse to help with the project could be dealing with parental divorce or food insecurity.

Once I developed this idea, I began to forgive people more often. I make an effort to give others grace because I never know what they are going through.

Despite my efforts, I still struggle to provide courtesy to others. When I'm late, I am less patient to wait for others. When I want to check something off my to-do list, I don't want to rely on others to finish the group work.

To develop this skill, I will stop thinking only about myself. I'm going to stop complaining about things I can't control and focus on the possibilities others are struggling with. I never know the situation other people are in and I cannot control the outcomes of their actions. I will give others grace to live their life and I will focus on my own problems.