I grew up in New Paltz, NY. I went to St. Joseph’s Elementary School, and then on to Our Lady of Lourdes. The nuns and brothers asked – what did you do today to make the world a better place?

My mother was a teacher. My father was a Marine veteran and a salesman for IBM. My brother Geoff was a Marine corporal, and he had a mental breakdown when I was 13 and died in 1992. We learned that your life as you know it can end without warning.

I walked away from Iowa State University to ride horses all day as a wrangler and later the barn foreman at a dude ranch. I learned that you need to connect with all people. Remember your audience.

My brother, Stephen, was killed while working as an ironworker in 1979. I learned to live the best life I can. My father was overwhelmed by the loss and died in 1985. I learned that whatever happens, you need to be in control of your reactions.

While taking care of our son, I learned that sharing our time with our son was much more valuable than any money. Time is the most valuable commodity.

We moved to Lake LA, and I became an instructional assistant and noon duty supervisor at Wilsona School District. For me to impact change, I needed a degree. In effect, I had to start over. I went back to school and got my credentials and my masters.

In 23 years, I have taught history, language arts, math, science, PE, robotics, and I am heading towards teaching STEAM careers. I volunteer in leadership roles in the community and with the school. Ask yourself: What have you done to make the world a better place?

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Advice to younger self:

• • Do the best you can every day. Take time to think. Acknowledge your day, forgive yourself, and forgive others. Mistakes means you’re trying; learning from mistakes means you’re paying attention. Pay attention.