From Disappointment to Purpose
I'm known for my determination. If I want something, I 1 for it; I refuse to give up 2 I succeed. Over the years this attitude has worked well for me and helped me achieve my goals. For example, when I wanted to be on the dance team at school, I learned all the dances and practiced until I could hardly 3. And when I wanted money for a new computer, I washed cars, babysat, and walked dogs for all my neighbors.
4 this year everything changed. I had set my sights on a summer 5that I was determined to get at the Water Zone, because the employees there could go on the water rides after their work and get free food at the snack bar. It was the 6 job to have on hot summer vacations. So just as I had achieved every goal in the past, I set out to 7 the job. I completed the application in my neatest handwriting, carefully prepared for my interview, and gathered a pack of 8 letters. I was certain that nothing could keep me from my dream job.
But after my 9, the manager of the Water Zone told me that he could hire only those with experience in water safety. I was 10. I felt like a failure.
On the last weekend before school ended, my teacher, Mrs. Keller, asked me 11 I would be interested in the kids' summer day camp. I decided that I had nothing to 12, so I called the manager and 13 an interview. She was 14 by my babysitting experience and employed me. In less than a week, I had completely 15 about wanting to work at the water park. Each time I comforted a little boy who missed his mother or a little girl who needed to help tying her shoes, I felt I was doing something 16. I realized that I had discovered my life's 17: to work with children. I now have a new goal. I'm going to study to become an elementary school teacher.
Sometimes in life we don't get 18 what we want. Our dream guy or girl may not be interested in us. The coach may not select us for the team. A certain employer may not choose to hire us. It's natural to feel 19; I sure did. But I also learned an important lesson. Occasionally, when we don't get what we want, something even 20 is waiting for us around the corner!
