The butterflies fluttered around in my stomach. I had to get them to fly in formation quickly. It was my junior year of high school, and I was given the chance to use my voice in a way that I will never forget. The school held its annual Veterans’ Day essay contest. I was hesitant at first, but I felt compelled to participate. The timing was right, and I could honor my Pop-pop, who had served honorably in the United States Army. As I sat at the desk in my bedroom, drafting my essay, I felt a wave of sadness, and tears began to flood my paper. The memories of Pop-pop- his stories, his laughter, his hugs, and his kisses. Every word I wrote was laced with both sorrow for my loss and gratitude for his life. How I wished at that moment I could hear Pop-pop’s voice. Yet, as the sadness lingered, I found comfort in writing about my hero. I poured my heart and soul into the essay. I wanted to express my emotions, tell my Pop-pop’s story, and show my appreciation to all veterans. Click. I submitted my essay. I didn’t have high hopes of winning, but I was proud to tell everyone about my Pop-pop and share my gratitude to all who served. I remember, oh so well, it was Thursday morning, a few days before Veterans’ Day (Monday, November 11, 2024), during morning announcements, “The winner of the Veterans’ Day essay writing contest is Cayla Gordon.” I was stunned and overjoyed. But the real challenge was yet to come. I was asked to read my essay in front of students, teachers, staff, and most importantly, a group of local veterans. How was I to do this? I struggled with my emotions while writing. How will I be able to have the strength to read in front of such a large crowd? Tuesday, November 12, 2024, was the day of the assembly, and I walked up to the podium. My nerves were getting the best of me. My stomach had the jitters, my hands shook, and my heart raced as I looked out at the audience. The thought of speaking in front of the whole school, and especially those who served, was intimidating. I worried I would cry and wouldn’t be able to speak. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and remembered why I wrote the essay. I thought of Pop-pop and the veterans in the room, and in that moment, I realized that words mattered. I started my essay, “Thank you for your service. This is an honor to stand here today and say, we salute you, Veterans and Pop-pop. You sacrificed yourself for the sake of the country.” I continued to read my heartfelt words, with tears of joy streaming from my eyes, the crowd was captivated, and silence took over the auditorium. I concluded with a long, firm salute and raised my head towards heaven for my Pop-pop. The audience stood up, clapped, and mimicked my actions. In unison, I had everyone repeat, “We salute you!” This moment not only offered me the opportunity to honor my grandfather, but also to share his story, and show my heartfelt gratitude for all Veterans. This was also a learning experience that taught me a great deal about communication and confidence. I learned that true communication comes from the heart, and that vulnerability can be a source of strength. Also, I know now that using my voice, even when it trembles, can be impactful. From that day forward, I have and will continue to use my voice to honor others, advocate for causes, and encourage those who may need a little motivation to speak up because words matter. “It's all right to have butterflies in your stomach. Just get them to fly in formation.” -Rob Gilbert.

Oh, how I love to take walks on the beach! I always look forward to school breaks because my family and I travel to enjoy the magical waves that rejuvenate our spirits and allow for moments to reflect. The cool sand engulfs my feet as I walk along the beach. I watch as the crests of the waves push the seashells close to me. My eyes grasp the sun's beauty as it bids goodbye to the coastline. This beautiful scenery allows me to reminisce about my learning experiences- coming out of my shell. I bend to pick up an obscure shell laying amid many others. It mirrored a presence that couldn't be overlooked. I see myself compared to this shell as I set out to become a cheerleader. How did I get here? I am shy, inexperienced, and have very little interest in cheering. However, I did watch my sister participate for two years. I realized how much fun she had making new friends, mastering new skills, creating new cheers, managing a schedule, and staying on track with her studies. I reluctantly tried out and waited for the roster to post on a Friday afternoon. It was a surprise to me to see my name printed on the roster. Immediately, I knew the start of my freshman year would be interesting. Practices began, and I struggled to keep up with my teammates. I wanted to quit and drop the shell. But, they chose me and I was determined to uphold my part in the team. I learned to love cheer, both football and basketball. This realization allowed me to try out for captain, and I made it all four years. Pausing my steps, my feet sink into the wet, cool sand as the waves crash around me. The tide rolls back, but I quickly grasp at a shell trying to escape my reach. At a glance, it looked undesirable, but I added it to my collection. Like my language arts course, I dared to drop out but continued to ride the wave. With hesitation and challenges, I struggled to achieve my desired goals. While completing my assignments, I received overwhelming feedback, which made me want to give up. However, with each critique, I devoted myself to improving in the areas that needed attention. Although the semester seemed endless, my final results showed determination. Like the shells that endured the ocean’s challenges, I have faced many obstacles head-on and participated in many activities that once seemed unattainable. Growing up in a single-parent household, I watched my mother work tirelessly at two jobs, ensuring that we had the basics. My sister and I saw her sacrifices and struggles, so we helped with household chores and babysitting to contribute and support our family. Receiving the Kalia D. Davis Scholarship would be an honor, and it would significantly impact my life and education. Kalia represented determination, resilience, living, loving, laughing, learning, and legacy. I would embrace the opportunity to build upon my character to be like her. Additionally, it would alleviate some of the financial burdens of college, which would help me to focus on my studies and continue pursuing my dream with the same perseverance and strength that have shaped my journey. Kalia, you are an inspiration! With this scholarship, I am committed to honoring your memory and legacy. I will continue to strive for excellence, uplift others, stroll the beach, collect my seashells, and enjoy the sunset (like you). Thank you for considering my application. ~Cayla