I have been alive for over 44 years but I believe that my life truly began when I found my life’s purpose. Unfortunately it came from a devastating loss after my mom was diagnosed with ALS and succumbed to her illness in 2010.

The day of her diagnosis was the turning point in my life, but it took me a while to realize it. I had to face a lot of darkness and fears and keep moving forward to find the light that is now filling my life.

It wasn’t that I had a fearless heart, but I realized that life can bring great pain and loss and that I had a choice; to let it engulf me, or feel it and keep going. I decided to focus on what little light that I still had shining inside me and turn the pain into a purpose.

The little light inside was my purpose beginning to shine. 

Her death brought me face to face with my life. I realized that life was too short to be miserable. Life was too short to feel stuck. I realized that I didn’t want to wait until my kids were older to create a life that had meaning to me and connection to others. I made the decision to take personal responsibility for my life, and to motivate and inspire others to do the same.

I did not have a fearless heart. I was brave because I felt so much fear, and I did it anyways. 

When I began this journey I had no idea it would bring me where I am today. Becoming a teacher has given me the opportunity to live out my life’s purpose. I don’t know where I will be in 5 years, but I know that I am exactly where I want to be. 

The journey hasn’t been easy,. But it has been worth it.

My purpose as a teacher can be summed up with three words:

Kindness.

Belonging.

Responsibility. 

I want to build a culture of kindness with my students. I want my students to feel belonging and connection in my classroom. I want them to know that they matter and that they are loved. I want to create a community of kindness and belonging, but also one of personal responsibility. I want to teach my students how they can bring meaning and purpose to their own lives and  unleash the person they were born to be. 

This is my purpose. The little light that ignited 10 years ago has led me here. I know it won’t always be easy but it is that purpose that will guide me on the days when I need to find the light inside.

I hope that you find your purpose. You don’t have to have a fearless heart. You just need to feel the fear and do it anyways. 

You are worth it.