I would say that I learned compassion from my mom. She always told me to watch my words and to watch what I say. I never understood why I needed to show compassion until someone showed compassion to me. A friend I never thought I would get to know told me that he understood me and helped me off my feet. This showed me that I needed to show that same energy to those around me. It molded me into what is known as the "Glue Guy". To be there for others to pick people up when no one's looking, to be the hope that a person may need. This followed me into high school. I was always first one in last guy out. I always pushed myself and others and always picked up my teammates when they were down. I always showed compassion to my teammates, coaches, and opponents. That's what you're supposed to do is what I always told myself in the back of my mind. But now here I am ready to start the next leg in my educational journey. I am still going to be the upbeat cheery guy. I am still going to show kindness to people that may need it. That I am still going to try and do my best when my best is required. I know that it may be a different place with some new faces. But that won't change who I am as a person. That I am still going to give everyone that compassion. If I am able to help someone from making a bad decision, if I am able to stop someone from making a reckless choice. Then I am going to see that a little compassion really does go a long way. That a little bit of help to a stranger can help their day, that being the little hope can make a difference. That's what I hope to do. But I hope my help and compassion goes beyond that. That the people I help help others. That I make a positive change reaction in the world. That just one little spark of compassion could ignite the hope and compassion in others. That they will want to do what I do, so that the world one day can be changed for the better and that all those who reach out from the dark with no hope get the compassion they have only dreamed of.