The Courage of Children: Boston and Beyond XXXIII

E. BAYARJARGAL
M. MUNKHDULAM, TEACHER
4th School of Uvurkhangai Province, Uvurkhangai Province, Mongolia
Courage, to me, embodies maintaining a positive outlook in the face of
adversity. It’s about being optimistic and self-assured and acknowledging the
challenges life presents—both good and bad. As a child, I grappled with a
lung disease that confined me to a hospital bed, tethered to a ventilator. Yet,
even in those darkest moments, I found the strength to persevere, fueled by
dreams and resilience.
But my journey didn’t end there. As I grew older, the specter of my illness
loomed over me, hindering my ability to participate fully in activities like
running. I struggled to catch my breath, a constant reminder of my limitations.
Despite this, I refused to succumb to despair. Encouraged by a steadfast
determination, I began to push myself, one step at a time. It was a gradual
process, marked by fatigue and setbacks, but I persisted.
“ENCOURAGED
BY A STEADFAST
DETERMINATION,
I BEGAN TO PUSH
MYSELF, ONE STEP
AT A TIME. IT WAS A
GRADUAL PROCESS,
MARKED BY FATIGUE
AND SETBACKS, BUT
I PERSISTED.”
With each stride, I felt my lungs expand and heal. The support of my friends,
particularly my fastest companion, proved invaluable. Though I faltered at
the starting line of the school’s one-hundred-meter race, his unwavering
encouragement spurred me forward. Two years later, he invited me to join
the school running team—an invitation I accepted with gratitude and pride.
Through perseverance and determination, I overcame the obstacles that once
seemed insurmountable. I ventured into competitions, achieving notable
success along the way. My dream of becoming a renowned singer remained
steadfast, intertwined with the very breath that sustained me.
My journey serves as a testament to the power of courage—the strength to
confront sorrows and obstacles head on. It’s about trusting in oneself,
unwavering in the face of doubt or fear. With unwavering resolve, I continue
to remind myself that success is within reach, so long as I remain steadfast
and resolute.
Today, as a fourteen-year-old, I stand as a testament to the enduring power of
courage. I’ve learned that with determination, heart, and unwavering courage,
any obstacle can be overcome. So, I urge you to believe in yourself and to face
your fears with confidence, knowing that on the other side of adversity lies
triumph. Don’t falter, don’t waver—embrace the journey, for in the end, you’ll
emerge victorious.
THE COURAGE OF CHILDREN: BOSTON AND BEYOND
VOLUME XXXIII
144 145