Be The Light In The Dark Empathy is one of the most valuable qualities a person can have. I aim to be someone others feel comfortable around, someone who inspires them to be their best selves. Instead of telling you how I influence others, I asked them directly, and in this paper, I will paraphrase responses based on our conversations. Due to unfortunate circumstances, I lost both of my parents and had a difficult childhood. I moved in with my grandmother at the age of 8, and my life settled; however, my past demons haunted me, and my body rejected me. Every day, as a type 1 diabetic, I must be my pancreas. In 2023, I moved from my grandmother's to my aunts to create life, health, and education opportunities. When I asked my grandmother, my hero, what impact I had on her life, she stated; You make me want to be the best version of myself. Your hunger for life keeps me young and brings joy to my heart. Your kindness toward others makes the world bearable. When I asked my friends about my impact on them, they said, "You are a huge influence in my life because you always know how to cheer me up and offer valuable advice. You have a unique ability to brighten anyone’s day, and you are a great friend." After school, I go to the YMCA, where friends encourage me to be my best self. The gym staff thinks I inspire others by overcoming obstacles and maintaining a positive attitude. You bring happiness to our Y, and they look forward to seeing me day after day!” My counselor has understood my situation and the challenges accompanying those struggles. When I asked her about her thoughts on my character and heart, she replied, "You have impeccable character and a kind, caring heart. You are resilient, determined, and inspiring!" To wrap up the essay, I want to share the perspective of my aunt, who has watched me grow up. As we sat together on the couch, she told me this story. I watched you grow up from a distance when you were a little girl. I would see you on holidays and on our trips to West Virginia from Pittsburgh. Life was never easy for you because of the people and circumstances surrounding you. Although the life choices of others weighed on your little frame, you always welcomed me with open arms and a smile that lit up your face. When life seemed to knock you out, you stood and walked out of the ring. You walked away from everything you knew and built a new life ring to stand in, and I could not be more in awe of you. My darling girl, you are brave. Your spirit shines through the darkest places, and you have taught me how to spark a light in the dark. Your hunger for life is potent, making me strive to be stronger. Every day, I watch you grow into a stronger version of yourself; I feel blessed to be a part of your journey. Life can be harsh, and it may never seem fair, but learning about my positive impact on others makes me realize that my struggle to find my place has been worth it. While writing this, I realized the important people in my life see my light and help it shine brighter. The smile that I give to a stranger or the new student at school is not something I do absent-mindedly; it is something I do, realizing what an impact being kind can have.