Ever since I was a little kid, I had a passion for helping others. As I have grown, that passion has continued to develop more and more. My parents were a big influence in this aspect of my life by teaching me the truths of the Bible land encouraging me to be like Jesus, who had genuine compassion for all, especially those in need. I am a Christian, which means that I am a follower of Christ, and I want to be like him. I have also always had a love adventure, and greatly enjoy doing anything that involves physical activity, especially when that activity has a reward. And for me personally, there is no greater reward than saving someone’s life. If I can give someone a second chance to make the right decisions in life, that is the best thing I could possibly ask for. So when I found out more about volunteering as a firefighter, I immediately knew that it was something I wanted to do. I got involved at my local station, and started making good friends with my coworkers. I went through training, where I made more friends. I love getting to be part of my community, especially reaching out to those who are hurting and in need. I have now been a volunteer firefighter for a year, and have experienced much in that time. I absolutely love everything about it, and will continue to serve my community in this way for as long as I can. I am also hoping to become an EMT very soon as well. I love helping people, no matter what circumstances they are in. My career choice is youth ministry, which is another way that I can invest in helping my fellow humans. I want to be able to get through college debt free so that I am open and available for more opportunities, and to be able to be more involved with things like firefighting and my community. I am truly the happiest when I am serving other people, no matter how dangerous it is. To me, it is completely worth the risk of putting my life on the line to be able to save someone else. I have never once regretted sacrificing my time and energy for others, as that brings true joy and happiness to life. I have had close calls before, where my life flashed before my eyes, but I would gladly keep doing what I love, because I know that I am ready to die if that’s what God wants for me, but many other people are not. I hope and pray that I may be able to make an impact on as many people as possible while I am here on earth, so that they can be ready for eternity, and maybe have an impact on others themselves. Volunteering is the best! -Justin Stearns