As a girl in this world, your mother is one of the most valuable people in your life. When you fall and scratch your knee on the playground, your mother is there. When you go through your first heartbreak, your mother is there. When you're going to prom and you need help finding a dress, your mom is there. When you go off to college or get married, your mom is there. For me, however, a was stripped of these memories after losing my mom when I was only six years old. Anyone who knew my mom knew the way she lit up any room she walked into. She had a bright energy about her that just made you feel safe and content. She was independent, selfless, intelligent, strong, and so much more. I aspire every day to be even a fraction of the woman she was. Most things that your mother would teach you or help you go through, I've had to learn myself. Sure, my dad can try, but it's not the same. When other girls ask how I'm good at braiding hair it's because I've had to spend so much time learning to do my own, I had no one else who could. Growing up without my mother and seeing close friends of mine with theirs might be the hardest part. I envy the way that they can receive the loving embrace of their mother after a draining day. When I fall, I pick myself up and back up again with no mother there to help. When I decided to play basketball and volleyball, It may have been one of the best decisions of my life. Regardless of having to balance it with academics, work, and social life, these sports have allowed me not only a safe environment where I can disregard the troubles in my life but have provided me with family. My teammates and my coaches have become some of my best friends. They have my best interest in mind and keep me accountable when needed. When I'm playing, if I'm ever feeling down, I imagine my mother cheering for me in the crowd. Yes, it may be ''corny", but it gives me hope. As team captain, I strive to push my teammates and encourage them as I know my mom would to me. In her memory, I put 110% into sports and cherish every chance I get to step onto the court, as tomorrow is not promised. I want to show others who have lost a parent or loved one that they are strong and can do anything they put their mind to. I want them not to use the adversity they face as an excuse, but rather as a reason to work even harder and find the success to make their loved one proud. I hope to graduate high school and continue my volleyball experience in college, where I hope to earn a degree and find a career in which I can achieve my biggest goal, to help others.