By BLAIR GRANGER / Guest Columnist

So many times have the words “make a difference” passed through my ears and remained dormant in my mind.

But as I sat listening to my pastor during Shelby County High Schools baccalaureate service, this simple statement finally awakened my spirit and revealed it’s true meaning to me.

Our purpose in life is to make our own individual impact on the world, whether it is large or small. Each life is a renewed chance to make the world a better place, and we are given the key to this door of opportunity.

The next step is, “what will my legacy be?”

We have the power to choose the shape of our impression on the world. This is the part where most stumble. It’s scary to realize that someone might look to you as an example. But through my newfound grasp of the principle of making a difference, I have come to understand that being an example is a blessing in disguise.

We were given a pen and paper to write our own life story, and regardless of how hard we try, we will have an impact on all of those who are the supporting characters. This impact can either be good or bad. Why not tip the scales to the side of the good? It is always in hindsight that we see the ripples of our presence, and regret is not an easy thing to live with.

My personal decision is to be the example. I was created to fulfill a purpose, and I am certain that I will do everything in my power to do my best. I am human, so I know that I will make mistakes and I will stray from the appropriate path many times. Luckily, I know that I will be forgiven for my downfalls, and I will never be alone in my times of need.

I want to be the “light of the world” and the “salt of the earth.” This is where my true happiness comes from. Whether you, like me, are about to graduate high school and embark on the adult world or if you are already there — we all have a decisions to make.

So, what will your decision be? What is your message to the world going to be? We have a limited time to put our plans into action, so why not begin now