things would get better because I wanted them to. Another way baseball has helped me is that it made me determined. Determination was what I had to search for deep down inside. Right before opening day, my grandfather passed. I was so close to him; it hurt me really bad. I made it a point that I would dedicate my final little league year, 12 year olds, to him. I feel that my grandfather watched over me every game. He made me a new player with a new attitude. I finally got my chance, and made the most of it. I was the first pick overall, and would be the ace of the pitching staff. Before I would pitch, I would look up into the sky and give a little wink to my grandfather, who was my biggest fan. I never lost my faith. I received the M.V.P. award that year. I struck out 67 of 69 batters faced along with a reported 77 M.P.H. fastball as a 12 year old. I was also the M.V.P. of the all-star team. I had many one-hitters, and a no-hitter. All this happened because I never lost my faith. My parents taught me to also strive toward your goals, and don?t let anyone tell you that you that you can?t. Throughout my life I have dealt with so much. Baseball has really helped me. I used to be the ?goat,? and turned into the ?hero,

Some common words found in the essay are:
Life Understanding, baseball helped, little league, baseball helped deal, baseball life, lost faith, helped deal,
Approximate Word count = 823
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)