On Friday, March 15, Carolina Forest High School welcomed Jeremy Anderson, a motivational speaker from Atlanta, Georgia, to inspire students with a message to make a difference in the world.

Anderson shared a bit about his past.  He came from a young, broken teenager who was a prospective drop-out to a strong, positive man who only wants to help others. Anderson was leading a life that involved drugs and alcohol, but he knew he needed to turn his life around to be successful and happy. He is now a loving father and husband, a published author of seven books, and he is always helping others all over the world.

Anderson believes that even if he makes a difference in one individual’s life, he is achieving his purpose. His main goal is to encourage students to rise above everything that is pushing them down so they can excel and lead others. He wants them to be the best version of themselves that they can be.

Helen Bass, a junior, shared what she understood from Anderson’s message, “No matter how hard it gets, things will always get better. You just have to want to better yourself.”

There are many student leaders here in The Forest, but they need that extra push to go out of their comfort zone and encourage others. Being inclusive of everyone is a huge part of being a stand-out leader.

Anderson had lots of encouraging words and stories that he told to convince students to not be afraid to strive for their goals. He used his story to make them believe in themselves. He also shared stories of students who he has helped to prove that the smallest acts can really impact a person.

Anderson’s visit to Carolina Forest High School made a positive impact on everyone here.