Changing your mind about something is not an easy task, especially if you’ve been accustomed to thinking a certain way your entire life. During my years of growing up I’ve learned and grown allowing me to change my views after gaining knowledge and seeing multiple perspectives. However, for a long time I had the idea in my head that life was not worth living. It took a lot for me to change my mind, but eventually with the support from those around me I did.
I’ve struggled with PTSD, depression and anxiety since freshman year of highschool, and it greatly affected my mindset, making it easier to succumb to peer pressure and engage in reckless acts because I truly did not care about the precious gift called life. It took a long time to change my outlook on life and many people tried to help me, but the only way I could truly get better was if I changed my mind, changed my own outlook on life and wanted to live.
There wasn’t an exact moment when my mind changed but multiple moments that added up and eventually one day I woke up and decided I wanted to wake up everyday, get better and live.
Those who knew Phillip, saw him as intelligent, kind, caring, diligent and his impactful personality made those around him a better person. I had my own Phillip. My Phillip was intelligent, kind, caring, passionate and their presence made me want to become a better person. I understand I have never met Phillip, but I understand how someone like himself can have a huge influence on somebody. My Phillip helped me change my mind, helped me see the beauties of life, and helped me understand that life isn’t just about a single soul, but it is about all people trying to succeed to get through this game called life together. My Phillip saved my life, and I can imagine that Phillip Mathangani influenced many lives and truly made the world a better place.
I started high school as a kid who didn’t care who she hurt, and transformed into someone I can look into the mirror and say “I’m proud of you”. Changing my mind saved my life, and I can say I want to succeed in life, something that I would have never said four years ago. My Phillip showed me that just being a good friend can change someone’s life completely, and I hope I can be someone else’s Phillip and help someone else change their mind for the better, because no one is alone in this game called life. Phillip Mathangani changed many minds, lives and people, and it inspired me to do the same.
for
North Rockland High School
Class of 2020
College/University:
Boston College
Anticipated major:
Biology