I had the opportunity to attend the Oklahoma Policy Institute’s Summer Institute this week. What a life changing experience this was. And most of all, it was a time of reflection. I have had the privilege to life in two continents that are quite parallel from each other. I have gleaned from two different forms of education systems and I can see the vast difference between the two. I am ever so grateful for my parents who instilled in my siblings and I the understanding of the value of a good education; to strive for nothing bust the absolute best within ourselves because we are capable of achieving whatever goal we set before us. I am grateful for ALL my teachers that realized the depth of my education and went out of their way to help me appreciate that depth. I am grateful for my siblings that remind me daily that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I realized something this week. For as long as I can remember-probably since the 1st grade, all of my teachers have stated in one way or the other that I’m smart, I need to focus, I tend to be a chatterbox BUT I have potential. That was always the last sentence at the bottom of my report card as well as the last phrase said during a parent-teacher conference at the end of each semester. That sentence would to annoy me because I always thought “what do they mean by that? Am I not good enough already?” Well, fast-forward to now. Summer Policy Institute was a time of confirmation for me- in more ways than one this past week. For the first time, I finally understood what “but she has potential” meant. I finally see what my teachers were seeing. This potential they keep speaking of. My potential. My unadulterated potential which is limitless. It is my hope that more people have realizations like this. Each and every one of us has a purpose on this earth and with that purpose, potential and the will to carry out that purpose. This is why education is vital. This is why teachers, mentors and educators on all levels are immensely important. Not to mention well-wishers, acquaintances, friends, relatives and professional colleagues. The will to go on is a powerful thing and it is amplified when you know that you have a network of people in your corner cheering you on and wanting you to excel and succeed. So, thank you OK SPI. I will go on. I will keep climbing up. I will keep giving my time to my community. I will keep serving. Because that is my purpose. To serve the people.