My life journey is not just a story. It is a journey of perseverance, faith, dedication, and the decision not to give up, even when life has been difficult. I can relate deeply to Debra S. Jackson’s story because I also believe in second chances. I once thought my stories were excuses, but I now understand that my experiences are part of my purpose. Growing up, my parents did the best they could with what they had. They taught us with the knowledge they had at the time, and I am grateful for that foundation. As I grew older, I realized that knowledge does not stay still. It grows. Life changes, opportunities change, and we must be willing to grow with them. For many years, I allowed fear, delay, and life’s responsibilities to make me feel stuck. However, through prayer, faith in God, and determination, I came to believe that anything is possible at any age. I am over forty, a mother, and currently going through a separation after being with my husband for thirty-five years. I have also faced serious health challenges, including stage four cancer. After surviving cancer, I experienced another setback when I fell from my stairs and broke both feet. These experiences could have made me stop moving forward, but instead they taught me resilience. They reminded me that life does not end because of age, pain, illness, or disappointment. Life only ends when we decide to stop believing in what is still possible. Today, I am enrolled in university and maintaining a 3.8 GPA. That accomplishment means more to me than words can fully explain. It represents discipline, sacrifice, healing, and hope. Returning to school has helped me see myself differently. It has reminded me that my dreams are still alive and that education can open doors I once thought were closed. My values have been shaped by everything I have endured. I value faith, compassion, service, education, and second chances. I want to use my education to help others through my initiative, Grace Harvest Hope. My goal is to create opportunities for people who feel forgotten, especially those who need support, healing, food, housing, encouragement, and a reason to keep going. I believe hope can live on even after people reach the age where others may think their dreams should be over. This scholarship would help reduce my financial stress and allow me to continue my education with focus and confidence. More than financial support, it would be a reminder that my journey matters. Like Debra S. Jackson, I believe education can transform a life at any stage. I am proof that it is never too late to begin again, to dream again, and to use what you have survived to make a difference for others.

Close reading is more than simply understanding words on a page. It is the ability to pause, reflect, and uncover the deeper meaning behind what is written. Many people read quickly for information, but close reading requires patience, thoughtfulness, and emotional awareness. It asks the reader to examine not only what is being said, but why it is being said, what experiences may have shaped the writer, and how the message connects to larger truths about life, humanity, and society. To me, the underlying meaning of close reading is connected to empathy and understanding. When we truly analyze a text, we begin to see the emotions, struggles, hopes, and perspectives that may not be obvious at first glance. A simple sentence can reveal pain, resilience, sacrifice, or courage depending on the context surrounding it. Close reading teaches us not to judge situations too quickly because there is often more beneath the surface than what we initially see. This skill has become especially meaningful in my own educational journey. As someone who has experienced personal loss, health challenges, and adversity, I have learned that people often carry silent battles that cannot always be recognized immediately. In literature and in life, close reading reminds us to look deeper before forming conclusions. It encourages critical thinking, compassion, and self-awareness. I am naturally a very reflective person. I do not read simply to understand words on a page. I read to learn, grow, and discover how lessons can be applied to my everyday life or used to help someone else. Growing up, I was taught that “reading is fundamental,” but as I matured, I realized reading is also transformational. The more carefully we read, the more wisdom we gain from the experiences, perspectives, and emotions of others. In college, close reading has helped me move beyond memorizing information and instead focus on understanding purpose, meaning, and perspective. Whether analyzing literature, discussions, or even real-life experiences, I have learned that the most valuable lessons often come from taking time to reflect carefully rather than rushing through information. Sometimes a passage that seems simple on the surface can hold a much deeper message about perseverance, humanity, or personal growth when examined more closely. Close reading has also strengthened my communication skills and my ability to connect with people from different backgrounds and experiences. It has taught me to listen more carefully, ask thoughtful questions, and approach situations with greater understanding instead of assumptions. In many ways, close reading mirrors life itself because people, like books, often have layers beneath the surface that require patience and empathy to fully understand. Ultimately, close reading is not just an academic skill. It is a life skill. It teaches us to think critically, reflect deeply, and appreciate the complexity within both words and people. In a fast-paced world where many things are overlooked or misunderstood, close reading encourages patience, understanding, wisdom, and meaningful connection. It reminds us that learning is not only about gathering information, but also about developing the ability to interpret meaning, show compassion, and apply knowledge in ways that positively impact ourselves and others. As I continue pursuing higher education, I hope to carry these lessons with me not only in the classroom, but throughout my personal and professional life. I want to continue becoming a person who listens carefully, thinks deeply, and leads with empathy. In a world where many people feel unheard or misunderstood, I believe close reading helps us become better communicators, better students, and better human beings. It teaches us to value perspective, seek truth beneath the surface, and use knowledge not just for personal success, but also to uplift and encourage others.

First, I give honor to Jehovah God for giving me strength through life’s challenges and losses. Losing my father was one of the hardest experiences of my life. In many ways, I lost a pillar of our family. My father, known to many as “Boss Ross,” was a kind and humble man who believed in helping others without expecting anything in return. He was the type of person who would walk barefoot through the neighborhood, always comfortable being himself, always connected to the people around him. What I remember most about him was his heart. If a neighbor’s grass needed cutting, he would cut it without being asked. We had an elderly couple in our neighborhood, both over 85 years old, and my father never forgot about them. Whenever he cooked, he would prepare extra food and personally walk two plates down to Mr. Smitty’s house to make sure they had something warm to eat. Small acts like that may not seem big to the world, but to me, they showed true character, compassion, and humanity. My father taught me that being rich is not always about money. Sometimes being rich means having a giving spirit, strong values, and a willingness to care for others. Those lessons continue to guide me today, especially during difficult seasons in my life. As a cancer survivor facing physical setbacks from chemotherapy, radiation, and medication-induced menopause, I have had moments where it was difficult to stay motivated. But the work ethic, resilience, and kindness my father modeled continue to inspire me to move forward. I have remained dedicated to my education and maintained a 3.8 GPA because I want to honor the sacrifices and values that shaped me. This scholarship would help ease financial stress and allow me to continue pursuing my education while carrying forward the same spirit of compassion, perseverance, and service that my father lived every day First, I give honor to Jehovah God for giving me strength through life’s challenges and losses. Losing my father was one of the hardest experiences of my life. In many ways, I lost a pillar of our family. My father, known to many as “Boss Ross,” was a kind and humble man who believed in helping others without expecting anything in return. He was the type of person who would walk barefoot through the neighborhood, always comfortable being himself, always connected to the people around him. What I remember most about him was his heart. If a neighbor’s grass needed cutting, he would cut it without being asked. We had an elderly couple in our neighborhood, both over 85 years old, and my father never forgot about them. Whenever he cooked, he would prepare extra food and personally walk two plates down to Mr. Smitty’s house to make sure they had something warm to eat. Small acts like that may not seem big to the world, but to me, they showed true character, compassion, and humanity. My father taught me that being rich is not always about money. Sometimes being rich means having a giving spirit, strong values, and a willingness to care for others. Those lessons continue to guide me today, especially during difficult seasons in my life. As a cancer survivor facing physical setbacks from chemotherapy, radiation, and medication-induced menopause, I have had moments where it was difficult to stay motivated. But the work ethic, resilience, and kindness my father modeled continue to inspire me to move forward.

First, I give honor to Jehovah God for giving me strength through life’s challenges and losses. Losing my father was one of the hardest experiences of my life. In many ways, I lost a pillar of our family. My father, known to many as “Boss Ross,” was a kind and humble man who believed in helping others without expecting anything in return. He was the type of person who would walk barefoot through the neighborhood, always comfortable being himself, always connected to the people around him. What I remember most about him was his heart. If a neighbor’s grass needed cutting, he would cut it without being asked. We had an elderly couple in our neighborhood, both over 85 years old, and my father never forgot about them. Whenever he cooked, he would prepare extra food and personally walk two plates down to Mr. Smitty’s house to make sure they had something warm to eat. Small acts like that may not seem big to the world, but to me, they showed true character, compassion, and humanity. My father taught me that being rich is not always about money. Sometimes being rich means having a giving spirit, strong values, and a willingness to care for others. Those lessons continue to guide me today, especially during difficult seasons in my life. As a cancer survivor facing physical setbacks from chemotherapy, radiation, and medication-induced menopause, I have had moments where it was difficult to stay motivated. But the work ethic, resilience, and kindness my father modeled continue to inspire me to move forward. I have remained dedicated to my education and maintained a 3.8 GPA because I want to honor the sacrifices and values that shaped me. This scholarship would help ease financial stress and allow me to continue pursuing my education while carrying forward the same spirit of compassion, perseverance, and service that my father lived every day First, I give honor to Jehovah God for giving me strength through life’s challenges and losses. Losing my father was one of the hardest experiences of my life. In many ways, I lost a pillar of our family. My father, known to many as “Boss Ross,” was a kind and humble man who believed in helping others without expecting anything in return. He was the type of person who would walk barefoot through the neighborhood, always comfortable being himself, always connected to the people around him. What I remember most about him was his heart. If a neighbor’s grass needed cutting, he would cut it without being asked. We had an elderly couple in our neighborhood, both over 85 years old, and my father never forgot about them. Whenever he cooked, he would prepare extra food and personally walk two plates down to Mr. Smitty’s house to make sure they had something warm to eat. Small acts like that may not seem big to the world, but to me, they showed true character, compassion, and humanity. My father taught me that being rich is not always about money. Sometimes being rich means having a giving spirit, strong values, and a willingness to care for others. Those lessons continue to guide me today, especially during difficult seasons in my life. As a cancer survivor facing physical setbacks from chemotherapy, radiation, and medication-induced menopause, I have had moments where it was difficult to stay motivated. But the work ethic, resilience, and kindness my father modeled continue to inspire me to move forward. I have remained dedicated to my education and maintained a 3.8 GPA

Pursuing a college education while managing life’s responsibilities is never easy, but for me, it has become a journey defined by resilience, faith, and purpose. After being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, my life changed in ways I never could have imagined. While I have completed active treatment, I remain on long-term hormone therapy for the next ten years. This ongoing journey requires not only physical endurance but emotional strength as well. During this time, I also faced job loss after relocating to the Charlotte area, which added financial uncertainty to an already difficult season. Determined to keep moving forward, I secured a position at Whole Foods, grateful for the opportunity to rebuild. However, life presented another unexpected challenge. After suffering a serious fall that resulted in two broken feet and a torn ACL, I once again found myself unable to work. These setbacks could have easily discouraged me, but instead, they strengthened my resolve to continue pursuing my goals. Despite these hardships, I refused to give up on my education. I am currently pursuing my degree with a 3.8 GPA, holding tightly to the belief that education is not just a pathway to financial stability, but a foundation for purpose-driven living. My academic journey has become a source of hope and empowerment, reminding me that growth is still possible even in the most difficult circumstances. My experiences have also shaped my vision for the future. I am the founder of Grace Harvest Haven, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to providing jobs, housing, and healing opportunities for individuals who are often overlooked—particularly those facing illness, aging, or hardship. This mission is deeply personal to me. I understand what it feels like to be vulnerable, and I am committed to creating a space where others can find dignity, purpose, and care. Balancing school, health challenges, and financial responsibilities has required immense sacrifice, discipline, and faith. There have been moments of uncertainty and fear, but I have learned that true strength is not the absence of struggle—it is the decision to keep going in spite of it. Each obstacle has taught me patience, perseverance, and the importance of trusting the process. This scholarship would provide critical support during a time when I am actively working to rebuild stability. It would help ease the burden of essential living expenses, allowing me to remain focused on my education and continue developing a vision that serves others in meaningful ways. I believe my journey is not just about overcoming hardship, but about transforming it into something purposeful. I still have something to give—to my family, to my community, and to those who may one day find hope through the work I am building. Thank you for considering my application. ⸻ If you want, I can also tailor this to hit specific judging criteria (like leadership, impact, or financial need) depending on the scholarship rubric.

Writing about my father is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. His story is not simple—it is filled with both love and pain. My father struggled with alcohol from the time he was just ten years old. Addiction became a part of his life before he ever had the chance to fully understand it. Although he eventually found the strength to quit at the age of fifty, the damage had already taken its toll. Losing him forced me to confront not only grief, but also the long-lasting effects of addiction on a family. Growing up, I saw firsthand how alcohol can change a person and affect everyone around them. It created instability, emotional distance, and moments of uncertainty that shaped how I viewed the world. For a long time, I carried confusion, sadness, and even unanswered questions about why things had to be the way they were. When I lost my father, those feelings deepened. Grief does not just come from loss—it also comes from what could have been. During my healing journey, I realized that I needed tools to help me process both my emotions and my experiences. Meditation became a space where I could find stillness in the middle of overwhelming thoughts. It allowed me to slow down, breathe, and sit with my feelings instead of running from them. In those quiet moments, I began to understand that healing is not about forgetting—it is about learning how to carry your experiences in a way that does not break you. Journaling has been equally transformative for me. Writing gave me a voice when I struggled to express myself out loud. It became a place where I could be honest, raw, and reflective without judgment. Through journaling, I have been able to release pain, recognize patterns, and track my growth over time. What started as a way to cope has become a daily practice that strengthens my mental and emotional well-being. One of the most important influences in my life has been my ability to find meaning in my experiences. My father’s story, while painful, has taught me about resilience, compassion, and the importance of making conscious choices. It has motivated me to pursue a life that is rooted in healing, purpose, and service to others. I am committed to breaking cycles and creating a different path—not only for myself, but for those who may relate to my story. Today, I am focused on becoming the best version of myself despite the challenges I have faced. I am pursuing my education and using what I learn to build a future centered on growth and impact. My journey has taught me that pain can either hold you back or push you forward—I have chosen to let it push me forward. Although losing my father has been one of the most difficult experiences of my life, it has also been a turning point. Through meditation, journaling, and self-reflection, I have found strength in places I never expected. Healing is not a destination—it is a daily choice. And each day, I choose to grow.

The moment I realized that challenges can become turning points was not in a classroom—it was during a season when everything in my life seemed uncertain. After being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, I found myself navigating not only a life-threatening illness but also the emotional, financial, and mental strain that came with it. What made this experience even more difficult was the challenge of continuing my education while managing the cognitive and physical effects of treatment. Before my diagnosis, I had always been a hard worker. However, I began to notice that learning and processing information became more difficult during treatment. There were moments when I struggled to focus, retain information, or keep up with academic expectations. It was frustrating because I knew my potential, but my circumstances created barriers that made success feel out of reach. At times, I questioned whether I truly belonged in an academic environment. Instead of allowing those thoughts to define me, I made a decision to approach my challenge differently. I began to slow down and give myself grace. I developed new study habits that worked with my pace rather than against it. I started breaking information into smaller sections, revisiting material multiple times, and asking questions when I needed clarity. What once felt like a limitation became an opportunity to learn how I learn best. This shift in mindset marked the beginning of my personal growth. I realized that strength is not measured by how quickly you succeed, but by your willingness to keep going when things are difficult. I learned discipline, patience, and resilience in ways that I had never experienced before. My academic journey became less about perfection and more about persistence. Through this challenge, I also discovered the importance of self-advocacy. I learned to speak up for my needs, whether that meant seeking support, requesting clarification, or simply acknowledging when I needed time to process information. This skill has become one of the most valuable tools in my life, not only in school but in every area of growth. As I continued forward, I saw progress—not just in my grades, but in my confidence. I am currently pursuing my degree in Business Administration with a strong GPA, which reflects not only my academic ability but also the effort and determination behind it. My journey has shown me that learning differences and personal challenges do not limit success—they shape it. This experience has also influenced how I plan to make an impact. I am building a nonprofit initiative focused on providing opportunities and support for individuals facing life challenges, including those who feel overlooked or limited by their circumstances. I want to create environments where people are encouraged to grow at their own pace and recognized for their strengths, not their struggles. The challenge I faced did not make my path easier, but it made me stronger. It taught me how to adapt, persevere, and believe in myself even when things felt uncertain. Most importantly, it showed me that growth often comes from the moments we least expect—but choose to rise anyway.

The moment I realized my life had a deeper purpose was not during a success, but during one of my lowest points. After being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, losing stability, and facing physical and financial hardship, I was forced to ask myself a question that changed everything: How can I turn my pain into purpose? That question is what led me to redefine who I am and how I want to impact the world. I am a woman of resilience, faith, and determination. I come from a background in finance and customer service, where I spent years helping others navigate complex systems. However, my personal journey taught me that true service goes beyond transactions—it requires compassion, understanding, and a willingness to meet people where they are. My experiences have shaped me into someone who not only wants to succeed but also wants to create opportunities for others to heal, grow, and thrive. I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration, maintaining a strong academic record while continuing to rebuild my life. Education, for me, is not just about personal advancement; it is a tool for transformation. I am using what I learn to build something meaningful that will serve my community in a lasting way. My long-term goal is to expand my nonprofit initiative, Grace Harvest Haven. This organization is designed to provide stable employment, safe housing, and healing environments for individuals—especially those aged 50 and older—who are facing serious illness or life transitions. Through natural farming practices, including the production of oils, cotton, and wool, we aim to create both economic sustainability and a sense of dignity for those who may feel forgotten or displaced. What makes my vision unique is that it combines practical support with emotional and spiritual restoration. I believe that people need more than just resources—they need purpose. Grace Harvest Haven will not only provide jobs and housing, but also create a community where individuals can reconnect with themselves, contribute meaningfully, and regain a sense of belonging. In addition to my nonprofit work, I plan to use my voice and experiences to advocate for underserved communities. Whether through writing, community outreach, or partnerships with organizations, I want to bring attention to the needs of those who are often overlooked. I believe that positive impact starts with awareness, but it grows through action. The challenges I have faced have strengthened my resolve rather than diminished it. I understand what it means to rebuild, to ask for help, and to keep going when the path is unclear. These experiences have given me a level of empathy and determination that I carry into everything I do. My goal is simple but powerful: to create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and supported. I want my work to reflect not only who I am, but also what I believe—that even in the most difficult seasons of life, there is still something to give.

Cancer did not just enter my life—it changed the rhythm of my entire family. When I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, everything shifted in an instant. The roles I once held as a provider, a mother, and a steady presence became uncertain. My family was forced to confront not only the fear of losing someone they love, but also the reality of navigating life through pain, treatment, and unexpected hardship. Before cancer, I was working, building stability, and creating a future. After my diagnosis, survival became the priority. My family watched me go through treatment, endure physical changes, and push through emotional battles that words often cannot fully describe. What affected us most was not just the illness itself, but the ripple effect it created—financial strain, career disruptions, and the emotional weight of uncertainty. Despite completing treatment, cancer has not simply “ended.” I am now on long-term hormone therapy, which means my journey continues every day. My family has learned that healing is not a finish line—it is a process. There are still moments of fear, but there are also moments of strength that we did not know we possessed. Through this experience, I have learned the true meaning of resilience. Strength is not about never falling—it is about getting back up, even when your body and circumstances make it difficult. I learned to slow down, to appreciate time, and to value the small moments that once seemed ordinary. My family learned how to support one another in deeper ways, to communicate more openly, and to stand together when life felt uncertain. One of the most important lessons I gained is that purpose can grow even in the midst of pain. My experience has inspired me to pursue meaningful work that supports others, especially those facing hardship. It has shaped my desire to build something greater than myself—a life that contributes to healing, community, and opportunity for others who feel overlooked or burdened by life’s challenges. Cancer also taught me humility and faith. There were times when I did not have control over my circumstances, but I learned to trust the process and lean on my belief system for strength. I came to understand that asking for help is not a weakness—it is a form of courage. Today, my family and I are different, but we are stronger. We have been tested, but we have also grown. Cancer did not define us—it refined us. It showed us what truly matters: love, resilience, and the ability to keep moving forward, even when the path is uncertain. This experience has forever changed my perspective, and it continues to shape who I am becoming. I carry these lessons with me not only for my own future, but as a way to uplift others who may one day face the same journey.

Tiawana Grant Scholarship Essay My journey has never been traditional, but it has always been purposeful. I became a mother at a young age, raising four children by the age of twenty-two. While many may see that as a setback, I see it as the foundation that shaped my strength, responsibility, and deep compassion for others. I had opportunities to complete my education earlier in life, but like many young parents, I faced challenges with time, balance, and direction. Still, I never gave up on the vision of returning to school and building a better future—not just for myself, but for those I am called to serve. Life tested me in ways I could have never imagined. I was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer and given a 17% survival rate, along with a 30% chance of recurrence. In that moment, everything changed. I could have chosen fear, but instead, I chose faith, perseverance, and purpose. My belief in Jehovah, along with my desire to continue serving others, became my strength. I fought through treatment, held onto hope, and today I stand as a survivor approaching three years of remission. Attending higher education now represents more than personal growth—it is a strategic step toward fulfilling my purpose. I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a focus on marketing, and I intend to use this education to build sustainable, service-driven initiatives that address real community needs. My goal is to expand my nonprofit organization, Grace Harvest Haven, into a working model that provides housing, employment, and healing opportunities for individuals aged 50 and older who are facing terminal illness. Through natural farming, community support, and dignity-centered care, I am creating a space where individuals are not defined by their diagnosis, but by their value and contribution. My passion for serving others is not theoretical—it is lived. Through my professional experience in customer service and financial operations, I have supported individuals during some of their most difficult moments. These experiences strengthened my ability to listen, respond with empathy, and guide others toward solutions. Higher education will equip me with the business structure, leadership skills, and strategic thinking needed to transform my vision into a sustainable and scalable impact. This scholarship would play a vital role in helping me continue my education during a particularly challenging season of life. After overcoming cancer, I experienced a serious fall that resulted in broken feet, a torn ACL, and a concussion. While these injuries have temporarily limited my ability to work, they have not diminished my determination. This support would allow me to remain focused on my studies, invest in necessary resources, and continue building toward my long-term goals without interruption. I view this scholarship not just as support, but as an investment—one that I fully intend to multiply. Reciprocity is central to who I am. I plan to give back by creating employment opportunities, mentoring individuals who feel overlooked, and building programs that provide real, measurable support to those in need. I aim to be a bridge—connecting resources, opportunities, and hope to communities that often go unseen. I have submitted hundreds of applications, attended interviews, and faced moments of uncertainty, yet I continue to move forward. Perseverance defines my journey. I refuse to allow my circumstances to determine my outcome. Instead, I allow my purpose to guide my actions. Higher education is not just a goal—it is the pathway that will allow me to transform my experiences into meaningful, lasting impact. With this opportunity, I will not only continue to grow— this opportunity will not end with me—it will grow through every life I am called to serve.

Personal Statement – Jennifer Kelly Memorial Submission My life has been shaped by resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to helping others. I was born with a lung disease and spent much of my childhood facing health challenges. Early on, I learned that life would not always be easy—but I also learned that strength is built through perseverance. That strength was tested again when I was diagnosed with stage four cancer, with only a 17% survival rate and a significant chance of recurrence. I share this not for sympathy, but to reflect who I am. I am a fighter. Even after a recent fall that left me with multiple fractures and a torn ACL, I continue to move forward. I may not have the resources others have, but I refuse to let hardship define my future. I am a mother, and my family has been one of my greatest sources of motivation. As an adult student at American InterContinental University, I have maintained a 3.8 GPA while navigating life’s challenges. Being one of the older students has strengthened my belief that it is never too late to finish what you start. I believe your attitude determines your direction—and I choose to keep going. My experiences have shaped my passion for nonprofit work. I am building an initiative focused on serving individuals who are often overlooked—especially those who are terminally ill, aging, or struggling emotionally. My goal is to create environments where people can find dignity, purpose, and healing through meaningful work and compassionate support. I believe that even in life’s most difficult seasons, people still have something to give. Outside of school, I am passionate about writing. I am currently working on my first book, using my experiences to inspire and uplift others. Writing allows me to give a voice to resilience, faith, and the quiet strength many people carry. I also find peace in listening—to people, to music, and to nature—because I believe every story matters. The people who motivate me most are my mother and my daughter. They have always encouraged me to believe in myself, often reminding me of my gift for writing. Their support has helped me see that my journey, no matter how difficult, has purpose. Above all, my faith guides me. I give all honor and glory to Jehovah for sustaining me through every trial. My life has taught me that strength is not just about survival—it is about using your experiences to uplift others. Jennifer Kelly’s life reflects the very values I strive to live by—embracing life fully, working hard, continuing to learn, and being a source of strength for family. The Kelley family’s belief in dedication, creativity, and strong values deeply resonates with me. Their motto, “Kelley boys never quit,” speaks to a mindset I carry in my own journey. In honoring Jennifer’s legacy, I am committed to living with that same determination—never quitting, continuing to grow, and using my life to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.