Student Essays
Dear Mr. Ray Charles,
Essay written by Taj Johnson
Hi! MY name is Taj Johnson. I am ten years old and in the fourth grade. I use many of the RICH principles. Every time I have a test, I study for it and try to incorporate all the RICH principles into my study methods. The week of March 3rd, 2008, I took my New York State Math State Exam. I used “Thinking Strategies for School Success” to help me solve the difficult problems on the test and strongly believe that I aced the exam!
I also use the RICH principles at home. One principle I use everyday is “I am Considerate of My Classmates and Others.” At dinner, I always make sure I say a prayer before I eat. I also make sure I do not burp or do any nasty things while other people are eating. The same thing applies for breakfast and lunch. I also use the RICH principle “Thinking Strategies for School Success” to check my little sister’s homework. I try to use strategies to help her get all of her homework correct.
I’ve been reading about you and see you play the piano…just like me! In one of your videos you said that you never give up. That also ties in to the RICH principle “Thinking Strategies for School Success.” I try to find ways not to mess up when I’m playing the piano. Your words really inspire me to never give up! Every time I make a mistake, I start all over until I get the whole thing perfect. Now I know it is not about getting it perfect but it’s rather about doing your best. Also in one of your videos you said that you helped your mother a lot as a child, which ties into the RICH principle, “I am Responsible for my Behavior.” Sometimes I would feel bad for saying “no” to my mother when she really needed my help and after reading/learning about you, I know to say “yes” whenever she calls on me.
Thank you Mr. Ray Charles, for being a visionary…Reading and listening to your visionary pieces encouraged and influenced me in so many ways. I know now that it is not about striving for perfection, but doing my absolute best in everything I participate in.
Sincerely,
Taj J.