A Strangers Blessing

I always knew I grew up to fast. I didn’t know if it was because of the older people I would hang around or my higher level of maturity. To some this may sound like an excellent quality to have but to me, it really wasn’t. There were so many times in middle school where I would just sit and watch these other kids doing the dumbest things. All that stupid and nonsense behavior never appealed to me, I wasn’t one looking to act out.

             

As these years continued this characteristic of mine really began to dwell on me. In fact, it actually made me quite upset at times. I didn’t know who I could hang with or even just have a simple conversation with where my mind would be interested. So instead of spending my weekend skateboarding like the other kids, I got a job.

            

 Now this was my first job and I was a bit nervous about what to do and exactly how to do it. Luckily I was paired with one of the best employees to complete my training. He was about 19 at the time and I believe I was about 13. Beyond training me to be successful at my job he taught me many life skills that I still hold with me to this day. His name was Jesse and everything he told me I always took seriously and paid attention. He was like a mentor to me, and finally someone I could hold an actual conversation with.

            

 I realized that it wasn’t such a bad thing that I had a higher level of maturity then the kids I went to school with. This trait allowed me to succeed in greater ways, and apply my mind and time to things that mattered to me. Meeting Jesse allowed me to look at life in a more open state of mind. I know embraced new activities and hung out with people who suited my interest. I realized from Jesse that with a bit of encouragement anything is possible.

            

 This followed with me throughout my life as I got older and passed through school, until the time where college applications needed to be sent out. Deep down I knew I carried this message within me and I wanted to share it with others to bring them a more beneficial life. Leading me to my choice of becoming an educator. My goal is to encourage students to become whatever they want to become. Putting their education into their own hands so they can grow as individuals into their own futures.

            

 Things are funny how they work out. One moment in time. One person entering your life. A billion new thoughts have now impacted you. Everyone should look for mentors, and appreciate every encounter they have. I know that now I do, and I wouldn’t be where I am now if I hadn’t.