I AM... SCHOLARSHIP SLAM

I AM…

a loyal, honest, and trustworthy friend, son, brother, grandson, cousin, and nephew.

an animal-lover and true-blue Golden Retriever owner.

proud to be an American and blessed to share in the freedoms enjoyed by all here in the U.S., fought for and defended by our men and women in uniform.

undeniably in awe of the serenity and powerful forces of nature.

a guardian and protector of the environment---may I never take more than I should, and always strive to replenish what I do take.

a fellow running colleague---passionate and committed to our team’s effort to build each other up, and working hard to attain our goal of running for fun and personal best!

a warrior of righteousness and goodness in word and deed, and a firm believer that these virtues do prevail.

resilient and determined after having hit rock bottom with illnesses and losses in my life, but now on an uphill climb.

indebted with thankfulness and humility to all who have helped to educate and encourage, guide and support me with all of my ambitions and endeavors.

naïve and vulnerable at times to the harsh and often selfish ways of the world, because I was raised differently.

principled and always striving for excellence the best way I know how, for to be anything less would be cheating myself out of the potential and possibilities that lie within.

a teacher, a mentor and leader, a coach to/for my future students and athletes, inspiring them with knowledge while displaying kindness and respect, patience and poise at all times.

grateful for all the good in my life, knowing that things could be so different if not for the kind “hand of fate” bestowed upon me at this moment in time.

aware that what I say to and about others does make a difference; likewise what I don’t say does as well.

I AM CONTENT JUST AS I AM, with all of my frailties, imperfections, and inadequacies; naiveté, innocence, and vulnerabilities; pure in thought and intent.  I AM WHO I AM, and I embellish and embody it in the here and now---the good with the bad and the ugly. I choose to be aware of who I am at all times, realizing that I have the ability to refine and cultivate who I am for the betterment of self, but most importantly to lift others along my path. The possibilities and actualities of illumination and kindness are mine to make and behold. The question remains, “am I up for the challenge?" And, with resounding confidence and commitment, the answer is, “yes, because I AM A CHILD OF THE MOST HIGH GOD!"  May I always be able to give of myself freely and deeply, without pretense or reservation, encouraging others to make the best of each and every day, because as we all know, life is fragile and sometimes unkind. Life is what you make it, though, so go out and make some waves!