I have grown over the past year in ways that I did not think was possible. I have obtained more confidence from within about who I must be, who I am and who I possibly will be in the future. I gained more mental, and emotional strength and clarity. I became more motivated, encouraged through understanding more about myself. The changes within my body and mind were amazing to me. To look in the mirror and see the physical changes gradually occurring and growing smoothly into these transitions taking place seemingly on a microscopic level challenging my human awareness. The changes of mental grit came along in the form of being able to re-direct energy, focusing more, planning more and thoughts of my abilities in being a leader. This personal growth came with being a part of a great team. I am a Nottoway Cougar Defensive/Offensive lineman. I take pride and honor in the positions I play as a football player. in 2021 our football team went all district, all regional and we almost made it to State Championship, I gathered two great titles. Prior to becoming a football player I was really hesitant about playing because of my weight, I was overweight and had been home doing school virtual for almost two years and my grades were not the best. My mother encouraged me to go out and try, and without her help and dedication, I would not have made it there each day in and day out for practice. Seeing my mother, other teammates I had played recreational football with in my younger years, their dedication and willingness to help me do the unthinkable, in my mind, helped catapult me into seeing myself in a totally different light. My motivational levels within have changed dramatically. I worked throughout the school year, evenings, weekends, holidays well into the school year until football season began. This looked like a challenge but as I labored, I found it to be quite rewarding. I was even asked to become a lead on my job! My grades are currently straight A's and have been for the last two semesters of the last two years! What has remained the same is the understanding of hope. Years ago I hoped to be a leader, I hoped to make better grades, I hoped to be part of a great team, I hoped to work and do well. My hopes and dreams are the same, and this will hold true in college and in all I do. I know myself on this level to be intentional about conquering goals and dreams with hard work and consistency. I have learned through my journey of self-discovery that hope, consistency, being true to yourself, and putting in the work always will never come back void. What you put in, is what you get out, this is biblical and truth. I put God first in my life just as my mother has and is teaching me and knowing that He is my source of love, hope life and energy all things are possible for me and others. This journey is not just about myself, but about those that God place around me as well and what my contributions will be to this earth.