Each year we ask our classmates a straightforward, simple question taken from the lines of a poem by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Mary Oliver. We share with you intimate and candid responses to this question, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" Concept and photography: Tony Deifell, MBA 2002.
Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?
The cycle of protests never stopped. When I was twelve, all the teachers, including my mom, went on a months-long strike. At nineteen, my friend suffered a skull fracture from police brutality during a student protest. At twenty-five, we were protesting corruption once again.
Over the years, my mom grew tired of protesting. I don’t blame her. She was the only one in my family to stay and fight.
My mom’s desire to fight waned, but mine grew stronger. At twelve, I began following the news. At nineteen, I majored in Politics. At twenty-five, I volunteered with a local anti- corruption NGO. At twenty-six, I advised foreign leaders.
My mom fought well. Her protests brought down communism in Bulgaria. If she had attempted to cross the border, she would have been shot. In contrast, I have been fortunate to travel and study overseas. I cannot waste the opportunities I have been given.
Now, it is my turn to fight. I will finish what she started. Call it family inheritance.
