Education and work ethic. For as long as I can remember, my dad has hammered these words into my head. He has always told me they go hand in hand and compliment each other. With a better work ethic, one will go further in education, and with a stronger education, one will improve their work ethic.

In our world today, many people sit back and watch others do the hard work and then expect to be handed the winnings. This is seen at school, in jobs, and even in everyday life. I cannot even count the number of times someone has complained about a test grade they deemed “the worst grade ever.” However, after asking if they did their homework or studied for the test, the answer is almost always , “well… no.” Why do we as a society expect to achieve great results when we don’t do any of the “dirty work” ourselves?

A great example of one who always works hard, without expecting results, is the sports players on the bench. Day in and day out, they give their all at practice, but because they aren’t the starting five, six, or eleven, they never get the recognition. However, many of these athletes never complain or dread that they work just as hard as the starting players, but don’t get the special prize of being congratulated everywhere they go. These players are the most humble and gracious people because they are just thankful to be a part of the team and push their teammates to greatness every practice. I’ve been that player both on and off the bench, and I have learned more from watching on the sidelines than playing on the field. As a member of varsity volleyball my junior year I went to practices, team dinners, and every game. However, I was not able to get on the court unless we were way ahead in points. This finally proved to be worth it during the State Volleyball Tournament. I learned the work was completely worth it, even though I was not the one receiving the glory.

Sitting around waiting for life to bless us with random gifts will get us nowhere. Working hard and being educated will get us everywhere. Even if your education is working in the field and bettering yourself, it still counts as an education. Choose something to be dedicated to, and work for it. Don’t stop until you have reached it, and, you will be successful. It is not about the money, but rather the pride you will feel from finally accomplishing your dreams. Because, like my dad always told me, “Education and work ethic are two important aspects that will help you to achieve your dreams.”