I was so delighted when Principal of Brandon Epic asked me to speak to her students for the Great American Teach In! I must admit how excited I was to know that I had the opportunity to speak to future scholars. There is something that happens to me when I know that I am making a difference and impacting worldchangers in ways I cannot trace.

So many questions go through my mind as I ask myself, "What part of my story will make the greatest impact?" or, "Will this truly help them break the cycle?"

Once I speak to students, all uncomfort vanishes. I can be my authentic self, and know that sharing a slice of myself with them is going to last a lifetime.

When I spoke this time, a student asked, "How did you do it?" They too had seen how I could have checked out on life, or given up so many times. However, its in moments like these when the spark happens.  You see, every time I speak, I'm serving various needs of learners. I never have two speaking engagements that are the same. Sometimes, there are tears...other times, there are a myriad of questions.

I truly enjoyed watching a learner who lacked confidence take a risk to actually ask me a question. They asked, "So....so when you talked about scholarships...do you have to pay that back?" I got happy. I was able to assure them that there is help for them, and all they have to do is take a shot at success.

You should have felt the vibe of hope in the room, or seen the shy smiles from each student. There is just something so rewarding to know that I can speak life and activate destinies in the lives of each scholar every time I speak.

Again, thank you to Principal Terri-Byrd, and your phenomenal team for this amazing opportunity. The best IS yet to come, and I'm so honored to have had a part to do with this success in HCPS!