A turtle stays in its shell for a lifetime. For me, I stayed in my shell up until I was 14 years old. Like a turtle, I was somewhat hard on the outside, moved at a slower pace, and was afraid to be myself. Being hard on the outside and soft on the inside is what the turtle and I have in common. For the first 14 years of my life, I was classified as the "quiet one ". I never raised my hand in class or sat at a different lunch table. I was made fun of for anything. Even the simple things, such as, kids would tell me to do things just to laugh. I wasn't sure how to care or be patient for anyone or anything at school because no one had for me. I started caring more for my grandmother and helping her. Every other Sunday, I began to volunteer in helping out with the younger children at my church daycare center. Each time I became more patient in helping to teach coloring, gluing, and cutting. These past experiences have made me a more independent person and a much better leader. I am no longer hiding my emotions under my shell but wearing them inside and out.
Most turtles move at a much slower pace than other animals. I moved at a much slower pace than other people. When I was an infant I was put on several medications. These many medicines slowed down my development process. I was having a difficult time sorting, matching, and taking directions. Falling behind in class was another obstacle. The older I got, the harder it became and I figured out that I needed to become active in school. Getting involved early in Band, Student Government, Cheerleading, and volunteering at church and a local day care proved a great strategy. My time management improved along with my focus, organization, and positive attitude. These many activities and mindset really helped me to never give up and learn to go at my own pace. .
Afraid to be myself was another difficulty that a turtle and I shared. I never knew quite the right thing to say and was always terrified of saying or doing the wrong thing.