Resilience and Good Writing

It turns out Ginamarie ’25 and democracy have something in common — resilience.

Unsuccessful last year in her first attempt in the annual “Voice of Democracy” essay contest sponsored by the V.F.W., Ginamarie entered the contest again this year. This time around, she was recognized by Pittsfield V.F.W. Post 448 as the top finisher at MHS and in the city of Pittsfield, while placing third in Berkshire County District 9.

Students compete in the annual contest on school, local, state, and national levels, writing and recording a three- to five-minute essay on a patriotic theme. Considering this year’s theme — “What are the greatest attributes of our Democracy” — Ginamarie reflected on resilience.

“It is easy for us to point out the bad things in our history,” she explained, “but a theme that I’ve seen as I’ve studied U.S. History, even when I went to the National History Academy in the summer of 2022, is that America, despite the bad things that have happened, we have been able to build for a better future and accommodate changes.”

With that in mind, Ginamarie set to work, putting together her first draft, getting some editing assistance from her grandmother, and re-writing drafts in her free time.

“The basic gist of the essay is that democracy is kind of like a muscle,” she added. “When you are working out, it is difficult, and you will have tears, but those tears will make you stronger.”

Post 448 Trustee Mark Pompi visited MHS in May to recognize Ginamarie, who, in addition to being a strong writer, is also an active member of the MHS community. She was Vice President of the Junior class, is a member of the Hiking Club, likes to crochet, and is an accomplished cellist. Her favorite subjects are Spanish and Law.

Congratulations, Ginamarie!