From the beginning, cheer was something I had to work hard for and something I did not always see the fruits of my labors immediately. There are athletes who are naturally talented and there are athletes who work hard for every skill and achievement. I am an athlete who has to work hard to achieve. It can be discouraging to watch your fellow teammates excel because they have the raw talent while you work and work, yet don’t see the same results as quick as they did. I know now the work I had to put in to get where I am was worth it. It proved I can achieve anything I put my mind to. It proved I can do hard things. As I near the end of high school and cheering at my independent gym, I am amazed and proud of myself. I am a Level 6 stunt and tumbler. I worked to earn my spot on an elite team and have competed in top competitions around the country. My next goal is to cheer on a top college cheerleading team.