I would count the ways, but I would spend days sitting here in my chair.
I've been a part of first since August '08, and my god, I'm a completely different person. I was always considered very mature for my age (mostly the facial hair at 16 and the 6'+ stature, but also for a mature sense of right and wrong, as well as focus on school). But with FIRST...It managed to hit me at the exactly right time to have maximum effect. I was searching for a real calling...I needed a means by which to achieve everything I look to in life, and it was handed to me on a silver platter.
Thinking about it still gives me chills. The amazement at what I've been able to do with my team still shocks me, and the fact that my priorities have changed so drastically is intense for me to consider. I was the Varsity 1st baseman during my first full season with my team, wouldn't you know...I didn't come back this year. Now I'm a team leader, the younger members seem to have taken a liking to me (thank god), and I'm confident. Really, truly confident. In myself, those around me, and my future. Whatever happens, I'll always be a part of this program and a part of the lives of those I've met through it. I can only hope that five, ten, fifteen years down the road, I've managed to accomplish everything that the wonderful mentors and teachers that i've met have been able to.
Something tells me I'm in love with this. Something tells me I never want to give it up. Either that makes me overly attached, or passionate...however you wish to look at it
