<p>Another essay I wrote; hopefully it’s an improvement over the 6/12 score I was given on an essay last time. We’ll see. </p>
<p>“Are negative emotions stronger than positive ones?”</p>
<p>My essay:</p>
<p>Life isnt so much a box of chocolates as much as a rollercoaster: It isnt compartmentalized with a key to which flavors are in which boxes. It has ups and downs, and youre never as scared to fall as when you are at your highest point. On this rollercoaster called life, negative emotions create a much more profound effect, like the vertical drop on your favorite amusement park ride.</p>
<p>This year, a tragedy happened in my community. A vibrant, smart, loving girl of thirteen was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Her chances of survival were very slim. Hearts broke and healed, only to be broken again as Shannons prognosis improved and worsened again. After a courageous nine month battle with the tumor, she gave in. Everyone was devastated.</p>
<p>But before this happened, something magical occurred. Through Shannons fight with cancer, people banded together in tough times. Massive fundraisers were organized, bracelets were sold with the slogan Fight like a Girl embossed on it, and her story was prominently featured in the news. The negative emotions of doubt, sadness, and pain lead to a massive outpouring of support from the community and even around the country. </p>
<p>It was through this that I realized negative emotions have an extremely strong effect on people, much stronger than happier ones such as weddings and births. Happy emotions dont create the same sense of togetherness as negative ones can, everyone acting as one entity mourning the loss of a loved one.</p>
<p>In this way, negative emotions are stronger than positive ones, imbued with the magic to unite. As Shannons mother said at the packed funeral, Even though were going through tough times, the support from everyone here, their love for Shannon, keeps us going. Even in times of darkness, there is a light.</p>