Telcide-Bryant, Joanne: - I enjoyed writing this story to share how when life obstacles cause stressful experiences, we can activate our inner courage to plan a better outcome for ourselves. Learning to use the power of self-determination can alleviate the harmful effects of stress. Setting goals is a strategy that helps me achieve my life's purpose. This story teaches readers that overcoming barriers to reaching a goal takes hard work and self-determination. For over 20 years, I've served children as a special education teacher, and I work with the speech impaired.Additionally, I tutor as a reading comprehension specialist for academically at-risk students. Reading children's books to my students continues to bring joy to my heart as I teach young learners to read, narrate stories and improve their comprehension skills. Growing one's imagination proves that early intervention is essential for achieving academic success.