Find X

August 21, 2019

I have always been fascinated by X. As a passionate math lover, I regularly envy those who easily find X. These are the prodigies born with the genius ability to obtain X in just a few steps, or at times, some can do it in just one step. On the other hand, there are those who can never locate X. These unlucky ones try as hard as they can, but when the timer rings, all they have is an empty answer. As a result, they are forced to move on with their failures. For most of us, when faced with the task of finding X, we take many steps. We devote all our energy towards it. Our brain desperately sweats, trying to figure out the correct answer before time runs out on us.

As our minds struggle, we postulate countless ways to find X. Everyone has a unique method. Some prefer trial and error. These are the people who randomly choose a solution for X that appears correct on the outside, and they test it to see if it is the right fit. Others are less fond of such a tedious procedure and would rather use an equation. These are the ones who spend endless hours making sure they cover all variables to derive the perfect formula that would most likely bring them to X. Nevertheless, whether you choose to guess and check, create your equation, or use another method to find X, there exists a high chance that the first solution you get is incorrect. Once you realize that the answer in front of you is unfitting, it is then most difficult to let go, learn from your mistakes, and begin searching again. In fact, the pain and frustration of having to start from scratch again have caused many to give up their pursuit for X. 

However, the reward of finding X is extraordinary. The joy that comes with it is indescribable in words. As you proudly present X to your friends and family and tell them about your story of approaching X, you celebrate this moment, knowing that all the hard work finally paid off. The life that awaits you is one filled with happiness. It is then your responsibility to assist others in finding X. 

As a 16-year-old boy, I too dream of finding X one day. In fact, I am always on the lookout for X as X is meant to be the special person you will love forever.

Click HERE for the writing process!

Reflection: This piece took me the most time out of all the other pieces. This was because after I came up with the idea of having a twist to what X could be, I struggled to find words that matched two descriptions of X (numbers and the person you love). It was a challenge to guide the readers one way but actually mean another thing. At the same time, I had to keep it short, and this prohibited large elaborations. At the end, I am not so sure if I succeeded in achieving my intended purpose of surprising the reader and making them read the whole essay again to fully understand the meanings behind each word because there could be a chance that the reader may get very confused of what I am just saying. Regardless, I did have fun trying to create a new type of essay that I would seldom write.