Michael J. Fox's 'Epiphany'

Epiphany Essay
“Family is not an important thing, it's everything.”
-Michael J. Fox
Michael J. Fox’s quote about the importance of family mirrors my beliefs about the value of not only one’s blood relatives but the people who are loyal to you no matter the circumstance. Throughout our lifetime we are influenced, both positively and negatively, and inspired by many. This can have effects on our character, our beliefs, and the name we make for ourselves. As I pave my way to college and the real world, I have personally experienced an epiphany about how my family and the people around me have impacted me and prepared me for life beyond high school. The life lessons and experiences I have gained from others are more valuable than any amount of
riches in this world.
My junior year of high school has snuck up on me and college isn't a distant fantasy anymore, it is now a reality.
Many people in my life have prepared me for my future and have taught me how to handle any obstacle thrown my way. My parents have inspired me to never settle for anything but the best, and have taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Both of my parents came from families without a strong financial basis or a stronghold of people who believed that they could excel; moreover, this led my parents to becoming doctors and providing support in every aspect for my sister and I. My parents’ determination has led to my belief in the veracious message: nothing is going to be handed to you because you must work to make something happen. As I have gotten older and realize the little time I have left sheltered by my parents, this idea has prepared me for the real world due to the fact that I know not to take anything for granted, but to work for what I want to accomplish in life. My parents have always asked me this question: There are thousands of other kids just as smart and talented as you, so what will you do to stand out from them? I truly believe this question has and will continue to motivate me to succeed beyond what I can imagine; furthermore, I now have set high expectations for the name I intend to make for
myself.

In addition, my grandparents from both sides of the family, and close family friends that I consider to also be my grandparents have impacted me by depicting what my priority should be in life: God. They constantly remind me to glorify God in everything I do and to humble myself before him. This lesson has reminded me that everything I have accomplished is because of God and the blessings he has bestowed on me; this advice has also encouraged me to remain humble and admit when I make a mistake in order to gain insight to new perspectives. Knowing that Christ is always there for me, has given me the courage to start a life of my own after high school and pursue whatever dreams I have.