Spiritual Development: Shamira’s Story
This post originally appeared on MHSKids.org
When Shamira reflects on her life as an eight-year-old, she describes it as the beginning of her spiritual journey. Six years later, she enrolled at Milton Hershey School and continued learning how to develop a relationship beyond herself.
“[Growing up] I was very insecure. You could break me the moment I heard you talking about me,” she said. “Going through that helped me develop a thicker skin and also helped me realize who I am in Christ.”
As a senior, Shamira participates in the school’s Gospel choir and Bible Society where she has leadership opportunities by organizing discussions with her peers. These activities have helped her build supportive relationships with MHS students and alumni.
Shamira also believes in positivity. When she interacts with students who are experiencing a challenge, she does her best to encourage them and show them that they’re not alone.
“When people see that you’re positive, they want to be around you,” Shamira explained. “Without a positive spirit, many [employees] won’t want to work with you. Attitude is everything. It’s not about what happens to you, it’s about how you handle it.”
Her advice for developing a spiritual mindset? “Try to do little things [each day] like being thankful for food,” she said.
Along with gratitude, Shamira also says her spirituality helps her practice mutual respect when she’s interacting with students who have differing backgrounds and beliefs.
“When I share my views with people who have different beliefs, I try not to disrespect their views because that automatically turns them away,” she said. “I was taught you don’t always have to preach to someone—just show them through your lifestyle.”
As Shamira prepares to graduate from MHS, she has faith in the future even when she feels unsure. Her spirituality is also guiding her career goals.
“I’m going to miss this place. There are good moments that I’ve shared with a lot of people,” she said. “Sometimes I get nervous [about the future], but then I remember to trust God.”
Shamira plans to attend Cairn University near Philadelphia to major in business and minor in biblical studies. Her goal is to become a motivational speaker who discusses spirituality with others.
To view the origninal story click here.
For more than 100 years, Milton Hershey School has helped children to realize their full potential by offering a top-notch education to students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade from income-eligible families.
Milton Hershey School is a cost-free, private, coeducational school in Hershey, PA. The school offers state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology and hundreds of extracurricular activities.
Milton and Catherine Hershey established the school in 1909 to provide a positive, structured home life year-round to help children gain the skills to be successful in all aspects of life.
Today, more than 2,000 students from across the U.S. attend Milton Hershey School. They have access to unique award-winning programs, experienced teachers and caring adult mentors.
Curriculum includes rigorous academics with opportunities for hands-on learning, after-school homework hours and tutoring assistance. Because class sizes are small, students get individualized attention and the opportunity to explore their own interests and abilities.
Milton Hershey School believes all children deserve the very best education regardless of their financial circumstances. A family’s income should not determine a child’s outcome.
Learn more about admission to MHS.