Honorable Mention
Age Group 10-12

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What Freedom Means To Me

by Mark Barcomb, age 12

           Freedom means I have many choices in life. I can choose where I want to go to school and what kind of school I go to, with my parents' assistance of course. Freedom means I can decide what my career will be. My freedom also allows me to choose how I'm educated to begin my career.

           This past year, my parents and I discussed my education. We decided home schooling is an excellent choice. We live in a free country that allows this. By being home schooled, I can get a broader education. This year I have been studying Algebra. This means I'll have time for more math courses before I graduate. I am even learning First Aid in the health program I'm studying. We have been able to study Florida at great lengths because we don't have to limit the number of minutes per class. My freedom in our nation has allowed what I feel is an excellent choice in my education.

           Our freedom allows me to decide on a career of my choice. At this point in my life, I'm still trying to decide what career will suit me best. I think I would like to be a lawyer because I would like to prove people's innocence. My second choice is an architect because I like designing and building projects with K'nex and Lego's. I'm only twelve so I have time to look into both choices.

           Once I choose my career, my freedom allows me to choose at what school I will study. I can choose a college, or a technical school, or even the Armed Forces. The Armed Forces have really attracted by attention and not only will I study a career, I will be helping to protect the wonderful nation that allows me the freedom that I have been given.

           By writing this essay, I realize how much freedom means to me. I pray God will guide me to always use my freedom in all the right ways. Even though I'm mentioning God last, He is first in my life. My freedom allows me to worship and pray according to my religion and this is what freedom means to me.

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