"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." -- William Shakespeare.When I was fourteen, I taught my cat to use a bell system where each bell corresponded to a specific action -- the blue bell was for treats, the green for cuddles, and the red for outside. It was then that I realized my knack for teaching. Whenever the opportunity to teach presented itself, I took advantage of it. In school, I would volunteer to help classmates with their math homework. On the softball field, I would offer lessons to young catchers. On the job, I would show the newcomers the tips and tricks on how to achieve and excel. In all aspects of my life, I encountered so many chances to do what I do best, to teach. Teaching is inspiring. I recall my most heartwarming teaching moment. I was working with a group of first graders. So young, so carefree. The first weeks of the class were quite difficult as the kids were having trouble with the transitions. In a new setting, it's crucial to implement and sustain a schedule as it provides a sense of security and comfort. Each lesson had three parts: introduction, implementation, and reflection. The transitions between the three took up sizable amounts of time. It's important as a teacher to remain patient. I cannot expect children to learn right away that transitions should not take up the bulk of class time. But one day, the regimen clicked. The children began transitioning by themselves with ease. In that small moment of success, I knew it was going to be a great year. I am excited for future classes I teach and the relationships we form. I look forward with promise and tenacity. I have found my gift, and I will never stop sharing.