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Do you have a good values-based story to tell? It doesn’t have to be perfect to make a difference in someone else’s life.

My life was changed, now I have a new trail to blaze.

It started in 8th grade, I used to be the epitome of what people think of when they imagine the stereotypical teenager- bratty, selfish, 'want want want,' 'me me me,' 'whine whine whine'- that was me. I was concerned for me and me only. I was just weeks away from spring break when my mom signed me up for a trip, a six day trip that would take up my entire spring break. I was not a happy camper, especially when I found out it was a mission's trip and I was going to serve other people.

On the trip, however, I was totally changed and I had the best time of my life. I went with the Jr. High youth group and we went to an old Ranch. Now this Ranch was really old (and totally cute) and what they did was put on free camps for Angel Tree children (kids with one or both parents in jail) I was SO inspired by these children! Growing up in bad area's, dealing with parent(s) in jail, and they still wanted to give! It only made me more motivated to help out. We painted the cabins (the kids stayed in) at the ranch, cooked and prepared food, dug a 12 foot hole (for a building addition) and of course mingled with these kids. I had never worked harder, and that was without a doubt the best week of my life. I now go back and visit the ranch as much as time (and parents) will permit & I will never forget that trip. I am so thankful I was able to go on such a trip & now serving others is one of my favorite things to do.

I haven't been the same since this trip & now I strive to do my best to make a difference. I am so blessed that I was able to go on that trip, I wouldn't change a thing about it.

Story was submitted anonymously