Embracing Every Moment by Zoey

Embracing Every Moment by Zoey - October 2025 Scholarship Essay

Back in seventh grade, I read the book “The Fault In Our Stars” by John Green for my English class. In a successful attempt to bond with me, my grandma borrowed the book from our local library so we had something to talk about on a deeper level. Everyday after school, I would go to her house, eat an afternoon snack, and talk about the chapter of the book we had just finished reading in class. She would always read the same chapter as my class, allowing her to be prepared for our talk about it. We discussed our favorite characters, important scenes that we enjoyed, and our favorite messages in the book. This kind gesture of hers allowed us to form a closer bond with her, in addition to learning important lessons about life.
The most important lesson in the book was taught to me by the main character, Hazel. She taught me that life should not be taken for granted since you only live once and you never know what might happen next. This lesson hit home for me since my grandmother was just diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that caused her to alter her lifestyle in order to extend her life expectancy. After reading the book and talking to my grandma, I decided to say “yes” to everything that is thrown my way. This enables me to take advantage of the opportunities I am given and have fun while I can. It also makes sure I will not look back on my life when I am older saying, “man, I wish I…”
Hazel’s message also changed my perspective on life, causing me to look for the good in everything. At the end of every day, before falling asleep, I lay there and think of all the good things that happened to me that day–big or small. Many people take for granted the things they have since they do not realize how unfortunate some people are. “The Fault In Our Stars” made me reevaluate my outlook on life since I now understand how fortunate I am to have a roof over my head, food on the table, and to be born in a loving family that supports my goals in life and who are willing to do anything for me.
“The Fault In Our Stars” by John Green had many important messages for the audience to learn from. The one that was most impactful to me was that I should live life to the fullest and not take anything for granted. Reading not only makes you book smart, but it also teaches you important lessons that can change your perspective on the world.