Independence

Independence is a word derived from the word independent which means having freedom from other people in regards to influence, support, aid and such like matters. When applied to the social setting of life, one gets to make decisions and stand by them no matter the consequences. Independence is closely related to self-reflection, which is cautious deliberation. It is crucial to apply these two aspects to everyday high school life, as discussed. My parents have always insisted on the importance of courtesy, ever since I was little, therefore, it is not a new idea to me. It never occurred to me the depth and seriousness of these words. A few weeks ago, I was heading to the next class when I was held up in commotion at the stairs. I tried to push and tugged at people without excusing myself. Just before reaching the top of the flight of steps, I tripped over a student who was on a wheelchair and who was the cause of the buildup. In that very moment, all the thoughts on courtesy from my parents came rushing through my mind. I felt so embarrassed and ashamed, but it was rather late to make amends. Everybody at the scene scolded me and then helped the fallen student. This event would be avoided if I had the courtesy in the first place. As one advances to higher levels of education, there is a sense of better understanding of situations and instances that contribute to events in people’s lives. For one to make the right choices, self-reflection must be administered. This way, decisions made enrich life both mentally and immensely contribute to the organization of social life (Gillepsie 2). It is by following the basic principles that I have got along with most of the student folk ever since that incident. ConclusionIn conclusion, being independent does not give one the freedom to trample over the pillars of responsible social behavior. In that case, being independent opens up the door of self-reflection that an individual bases their decision. Independent human beings should make decisions after much self-reflection and take into account the consequences of their actions to others.Work citedGillespie, Alex. Becoming Other: From Social Interaction to Self-Reflection. Greenwich, Conn: Information Age Publishing, 2006. …