Here's a breakdown of what makes a reflective essay:
* Starts with an experience: It begins with a specific event or incident from the writer's life. This could be anything from a major life change to a seemingly insignificant moment.
* Explores personal meaning: The essay's purpose is not just to recount the event, but to explore the writer's personal thoughts, feelings, and insights about it.
* Connects the past to the present: The writer reflects on how the experience has shaped them and how it continues to influence their life.
* Uses introspection and analysis: The writer uses their own experiences and observations to draw conclusions about themselves, their values, or the world around them.
Think of it like this:
* Descriptive essay: "I went to the beach yesterday and saw a beautiful sunset."
* Reflective essay: "The sunset on the beach reminded me of how fleeting beauty can be, and it made me think about how I want to live my life to the fullest."
Let me know if you have any more questions!