My Story/core-leaders

Alex Rongen

Three learnings from a life-changing experience

By Alex Rongen

Three has been a recurring number in my life.  I was born on March third.  I am one of three siblings.  I have lived in three towns.  I have three splendid best friends.  And my life was changed on my third Pay-It-Forward Tour.  Leading the Metro Mix tour with an amazing group of core members had an immense impact on my life... and it has only been a week since.  Naturally, there are three points I took away from this fall trip that have dramatically altered my perspective. Hopefully you will find them insightful as well.

1.  Youth can change the world.

It is amazing what 45 people can do in one week.  Whether it was the high school students or my fellow core members, I was astounded by the capabilities, accomplishments, and personal growth of each individual.  Each service project brought out overwhelming positivity and initiative in every invested individual.  Perhaps even more important, I witnessed the power of relationships.  We were encouraged by each others' growth.  We were empowered by each others' support and friendship.  There is no doubt that empowerment can move mountains.

2.  I can change the world.

I've always believed I could make an impact.  Until recently, I had no clue how true this really is.  The honest conversations I had and the sincere Yeah Buddy notes I received illustrated the influence I can have.  One participant told me he is inspired to become a core member in STLF because of my example.  A simple smile or 'hello' can have more power than I ever imagined.  A caring person willing to listen and love can overcome many of this worlds failings. 

3.  If I can change the world, there is no reason I shouldn't.

The most inspirational person I met on this bus was our community member Phil.  Phil recently graduated with a degree in aerospace engineering without any interest in pursuing it as a career.  Instead, he followed his passion of engaging high school and college students in their education and community. Talk about a life change.  Phil's unbelievable passion made me question what I will do with the rest of my life.  As a marketing major, I planned on working in a large company and climbing the corporate ladder.  Now, however, I cannot imagine myself doing anything but engaging and empowering our future generations.  If I can have such an impact on the world, I feel it is my duty and privilege to do so on a daily basis.  Phil - I sincerely thank you for helping me realize this.  I owe you more than you know.

And this is my challenge to you.  I can guarantee you have seen the power of youth in your community.  While you may not identify it, you have the ability to make an incredible difference for these students and the world.  And I ask you: if you have the ability to positively impact your friends, family, community, and school, why can't you influence the world?  You can.  I promise, you can.  Start now.

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