The First Stone - Essay

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knew how hard repairing something had been from the work at the greenhouse, and a human body wouldn’t be so different. From these experiences, Reef had learned that actions all have real-world consequences, but perhaps these consequences could be used to aid others.

Moreover, mistakes not only help you see the world as it is, but it may also boost knowledge retention and comprehension! When we formulate a solution on our own or come to a conclusion without the assistance of others, we are more likely to actually absorb that information and commit it to our long term memory. For example, if we are simply given an answer, we might remember it for just a minute or two before moving onto the next module. On the contrary, if we have to fight for the solution and search our knowledge base for the correct answer, we are going to remember it more effectively, thanks to the circumstances surrounding the problem solving process. In the book, Reef is given the repair job concerning the old and battered greenhouse. He steps in and immediately notices how broken it is and doesn’t think twice to destroy it further, even upon Colville’s demand to fix, not shatter. Once he’s alone, he hastily picks up a stone and smashes it through the window. Now if Colville had only scolded him once more for his action, Reef would absolutely never take it to the heart and even bother to clean up his act. However, he had only advanced his punishment, causing him to pay for the panel he broke with his own earnings. From this point on, Reef fought and struggled to repair the greenhouse to its best state, the penalty heavily lingering in the back of his mind. From this lesson, Reef would always remember that mistakes all have a cost, but sometimes making a mistake is the first step to crucial additional knowledge.

In conclusion, mistakes are actually a powerful misunderstood form of education! Yes, mistakes are rather costly, but if we interpret them in the right way, we are capable of guiding others with our personal gained knowledge. They are also extremely effective on the topic of learning. If they really live the situation and consequences, they can develop further critical awareness. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Mistakes will undoubtedly damage your personal life and experiences, forcing you into a horrifying corner of punishments and retribution. But once we open our minds to the possibilities and opportunities, it will no longer be about the aftermath, but rather the valuable experience of innovation and self-development into a finer person for yourself, and for the world.