Sources of My Identity

Ever since I was a little girl, I always loved helping people. I loved the idea that I could make someone smile by doing even the tiniest things. I have been involved in Community service since I was young. I volunteered at church events, grade schools charities, and other charities outside of school. Community service is probably the biggest factor that contributes to who I am and what I am passionate about. Although I enjoyed community service as a kid, there was an experience that really helped me understand what I love about community service and helping people. I was in fourth grade and one of my best friends and his family feed the hungry people in Philadelphia every year on Christmas Day, that year, he invited me to go with him. Christmas Day I woke up at around 6:30 am, it was extremely cold and I wasn't sure if I really wanted to give up my Christmas Day to be outside in the cold all day. We arrived in the city and began delivering hot sandwiches to the hungry and homeless people of Philadelphia. Surprisingly, that was one of my favorite and most memorable Christmases in my life. The feeling I got from blessing someone on just one day was indescribable. From that day on I realized that community service and serving others is my passion. The greatest reward to me, is knowing that even one little act can make a significant difference in someone else's life. Since that amazing experience I have always made time to do community service inside of school, through CSC, and outside of school in my neighborhood and the city.  
       

Another important factor that has affected my identity is my older sister Vicky. Vicky has taught me so many amazing qualities in life that I will always take with me. She has always been such a patient person who thinks before she says and acts. I often react to situations according to how I am feeling in that moment without thinking about the consequences. Not everyone has the wisdom to be patient with trials in our lives, including me. Whenever I need advice I can count on my sister to guide me to the best solutions to my problems. I am so grateful to have a sister like Vicky.

Finally the third factor that has affected my identity is quote from the Bible that says, " And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him, to enable them to fulfill the purpose for which they are called."
Romans 8:28. This verse, along with many other encouraging promises to us in the Bible, helped me grow a lot spiritually. It helped me realize that I should put all my trust in God because he has a special plan for my life.  I allow God to have his will in my life because I know and believe that he causes things to happen, according to his will, for the best.