"Mr. Washington, I just can't do it." I watched the young man in front of me tremble and struggle to breathe as anxiety washed over him. I looked him in the eye and said, “Hey, man. I’ve got you.” We talked about what we could do together to help him navigate the things he needed to in a safe way. After a few minutes, his countenance brightened and his body relaxed as he realized he wasn’t alone. This is just one snapshot of the struggle many students in our high school face each day. Every single student has a different set of circumstances that cause such reactions and they each need a different understanding and approach. It is truly a calling upon my life to help them. I haven’t always been a substitute teacher. For many years, I worked in local factories as I supported my family and raised my children. I enjoyed the work I did there but the physical toll it took upon my body became a problem as time went on. When I was approached about teaching in our local public school, at first I didn’t think that was something I could do, but somehow I knew it was a step I should take. I had been a youth leader in my church for over 25 years so I knew I had rapport with young people. That would not be a problem, but was I equipped to teach? I spent the first couple of years simply getting to know the education system, building relationships, and getting a feel for what areas I felt most drawn to. Hands down, the one-on-one time with students who had been labeled as “problems” were my sweet spot. I could connect with them and knew they were not bad kids or problems; they were dealing with challenges most wouldn’t understand. I understood. My childhood was riddled with the typical socioeconomic problems we study and read about. I get it. Now, I just need to learn more tools and skills to help them get through their trauma much smoother and faster than my journey. The truth is, I just can’t sit by and watch my community’s youth suffer without getting involved! Now, I am most of the way through my degree and I am passing with flying colors. I have a GPA of over 3.6 and am devouring my studies. I wouldn't be surprised if I don’t find that I want to further my degree down the road. But for now, I am already doing the work. I am already making an impact. I just want to make sure that impact is the best it can be.