The Unsung Hero
I believe in going the extra mile even when I know my efforts will probably not be appreciated. Being an active member on Student Council, I volunteer to work many school functions in order to better the school as a whole. We get up before the sun rises just to make sure that every last game or decoration is in its place. Our job is to serve our school and boost school spirit. We come before and after school frequently to ensure that our events are top of the line. For example, field day is an event that is filled with exciting and competitive games in hopes of each student at IWA to have some fun. However, even though us girls on Student Council are students too, the sole purpose of this day is to give the students a day to just have a good time. We put a lot of time and effort into these special activities, but most of the time we receive nothing in return. When I first joined Student Council, I became frustrated when my hard work was not greeted with a simple “thank you”. I felt disheartened that the other students did not appreciate what I had done for them. It hurt to hear their complaints and groans instead of acclamations and excitement. I wanted to yell at them and tell them that I had given my all to make the occasion enjoyable. I knew that this job was not going to be easy, but I felt like I was carrying the weight of the student body’s attitude towards the school on my shoulders. I did not realize what it meant to be an unsung hero.
Today, I no longer let the impoliteness of others discourage me. I keep my head held high and do my very best even though I know that I will not receive something tangible in return. However, the gift I do receive is a sense of accomplishment. I do not need an award for every tiny task I do. I understand that it is all a part of my job description of serving my peers. I love for standing up for what I believe in because I enjoy seeing the smiles my effort brings. Being a leader and a volunteer is about being selfless. Even when I am surrounded by negativity and no one wants to participate, I put on a smile and remain positive. I always strive to set a good example, even when I am forced to go against the crowd. No title or trophy can give make me feel the honor that I feel when I am doing something that I know is right. I never ask for anything in return when volunteering because that would simply defeat the purpose. The sense of peace and happiness that I get from doing good deeds is worth more than any prize or award that I could win. I believe in being an unsung hero.