My Great Expectations

In Great Expectations, I can relate to how Pip feels he is not good enough for Estella. He feels he has to improve his education and become a gentleman to be worthy of her. Even though he was getting an education at his house, it wasn't good enough, so he pushed himself to get a better education. I can relate to that because I sometimes struggle with my expectations for perfect grades. Ever since we have been graded I always expected perfection. I studied hard every night, and overworked myself both in class and at home. Doing the homework and studying what we needed to know wasn’t enough: I needed to memorize everything! I would get upset at a grade that others would be content with. Now I finally realize not to push myself too hard, and that it’s my effort that counts. I don’t need to prove myself to anyone, just like Pip doesn’t have to prove himself to Estella, or Miss Havisham. Why do we feel we need to prove ourselves? Is it the pressures of society or the pressures that we put on ourselves? In Pips case, it was the pressures of society. Estella made him feel inferior to her because of his lack of wealth and education. In my case, I was the only one making it harder on myself. In the end we both realized that it’s okay not to be perfect. Do your best and if anyone expects more, don’t push yourself. For each opportunity, there will be another one just like it. If you don’t reach the grade that you wanted to receive on a test, make sure to take advantage of a similar opportunity next time. Pushing yourself beyond your limits only makes life harder.