In Colorado, I found a passion spreading my beliefs to my peers and community; however, I was caught between wanting to create an impact and being too forceful with facts. I walked into 8th grade with a PETA shirt and pamphlets ready to change the minds of the many closeminded middle schoolers—only getting an abundance of joking responses. Those snarky remarks taught me the difficult lesson that not everyone will agree or even respect your views, even if the pamphlets have cute stickers stating things like “meats no treat for those you eat”. I began to turn inwards and instead of solely talking, I made sure I walked the talk. The tubes of Colgate toothpaste and Pantene shampoo were soon replaced with non-animal tested products. Dog walking at my local no kill animal shelter became a fun activity. Finally, ending with the hardest and most substantial decision—to become vegan. I gained confidence in my morals and instead of constantly having to prove others why what I was doing was the best for their health, animals, and the environment, I showed them. I still am asked daily about what I would do if stranded on an island or how I get enough protein; however, I now leave the PETA flyers at home because I am no longer looking for validation, I’m making changes with my