Rachel

“Let Me Go”

Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross in 1881 where she tirelessly cultivated hope for the victims of war and disaster. For many families she was their saving grace! Her last words are known to be “Let me go” to truly reflect her lifelong dedication to others but also her desire for peace. An incredible soul paved the way for others like me to walk in her footsteps! 

I recently have completed the American Red Cross lifeguard training which was an eye opening and unexpected decision I made. With my decision came anxiety night after night leading up to the training. I was convinced there was no chance I could be successful, but then I thought of others, the people who I love and the people I would soon protect. Finally I felt hope, and the sensation of peace was like a wave crashing over me as I walked out of the training with my certification. To summarize my entire experience into a single art piece I thought had to be very intricate but that’s not at all what hope means to me. I found my hope in the trust my loved ones put into me and I put into myself letting go of what I simply could not control. My piece represents exactly that there is no way to predict the colors of a sunset or the strength of a tide, but stepping back you’ll realize its beauty and understand that is what hope is made out of.