Passion is the ultimate weapon for decrypting the cipher of success. Though the thirst of ambition certainly provides one with the efficacy for achievement, it is the true earnestness towards one's pursuits which definitively ensures his contentment with his actions. This principle was illustrated to me by Sidney Carton, whose unrequited love for Lucie Manette in Charles Dickens' "A Tale of Two Cities" instilled within me an appreciation for the power of true sincerity. Albeit recognizing that his love will never be returned as Manette is already married to Charles Darnay, Carton goes to great lengths to win over her heart and ultimately takes Darnay's place at the guillotine in order to save Manette from the heartbreak of losing her husband. Carton's devotion towards ensuring Manette's happiness resonated with and inspired me to pursue my interests and future dreams with the same passion with which he loved Manette. Despite the ubiquitous instances I have observed in my school of other students apathetically participating in classes, clubs and programs in which they have no true interest simply to advance further in the “rat race” towards acquiring college application fodder, I have learned to carve my own path in which I will simply allow my passions to dictate what I plan to pursue in high school, college, and adulthood. After all, the one who completes the race first just wins a trophy. But the one who completes the race earnestly wins an experience he will forever cherish.