AUGUST 2017 The Next Chapter | Page 90

M Back to School feature story Getting an education does not come with an age limit--it just requires THE RIGHT MINDSET. In 2015, my daughter graduated from high school. After living in Columbia for over 15 years, I decided that since my daughter was going off to college, it would be best if I moved back to my hometown of Marion, South Carolina, to have help with my son while I attend school. Two years ago I returned to Marion and quickly found a job at First United Methodist Childcare Center. I am very thankful for my director, Mrs. Vicki Bridgman, who helps me in any way she can by giving me the opportunity to both work and go to school. When I first went to college, fresh out of high school, I had no responsibilities. This translated to plenty of time to study and attend college classes.  As an adult, I now have more responsibilities which require much of my attention and focus, so making time to study can be challeng- ing. Despite all the hurdles in life up to this point, I would not have done anything differently. This chapter in my life is something that I have prayed about for years, and God has prepared me for this journey in His own way. I am blessed and thankful that He faithfully enables me to overcome all the obstacles that are placed along my path. Studying Human Services/Early Childhood Education makes me realize how much I enjoy learning all there is to learn about children and their families. This career field is the perfect choice for me because I love working with children and I want to make a difference in their lives. I consider it a blessing to have an impact on their young lives and help them grow and develop into successful adults. I have the privilege of instilling in children life lessons they can take with them as they grow and mature. Since going back to school, I have also had the joy of meeting new people and having the college experience that I didn’t get to be a part of when I was younger. At the end of each semester, I am proud of myself for continuing to persevere in pursuit of my degree.  In the future, my plans are to open my own daycare center and provide services for young parents who would also like to go to school and earn their degree just as I am doing now. Throughout this journey, I’ve learned not to second guess myself. No matter what I want to do in life, I can do it. Nothing is impossible. God’s Word proclaims it in Luke 1:37. For anyone who is hesitant about going back to school, know this: you are never too old to pursue your dreams. Life is about opportunity. Getting an education does not come with an age limit--it just requires the right mindset. So, what are you waiting for? If you have goals for your future, chase after them. Make your dreams come true. One day, all your hard work will pay off and your dreams will become reality. You might have to dance through some rain, but I promise, it will all be worth it in the end...I’m chasing after my dream and loving it! Lakeisha Reed resides in Marion, South Carolina, with her two children, Shakala Leonard and Zachary Larry. Lakeisha teaches the four-year-old class at First United Methodist Child C are Center in Marion. She is currently studying Human Services/Early Childhood Education at Florence-Darlington Technical College. 90 AUGUST 2017 SHEMAGAZINE.COM