Potential Magazine Winter 2015 - Florida Edition | Page 46

teen spotlight photography by Lauren Childs stats 17, Senior at Evangel Christian Academy notable SGA President; National Honor Society; Top in Class (Junior Year); Junior Homecoming Attendant; Captain, Volleyball Team (2015 season) motto “Live in the sunshine” and “Think positive.” how it began At Evangel Christian Academy, Tori Temple is known for her strong leadership skills as much as her compassion for others. Tori also leads a Bible study club for 6-8th grade girls and volunteers at her church. Her faith inspires her to make a difference by investing in others. “I want to be remembered as a person who loved Christ more than anything and did all I could to help others,” she said. “The best advice I have received is from my pastor, Luke Morris. He said that small rocks create large ripples. Even though I’m only one person, I can make an impact with the things I say and my actions. I can have a positive effect on people, and those people can have an effect on more people. It’s a chain reaction,” Tori said. Tori’s biggest inspiration is her mom. “My mom is willing to help anyone, and she would give up everything for her family. She puts everyone else first and has a huge heart.” what’s next While Tori hasn’t decided for certain, she is interested in pursuing a career as a counselor or therapist. PG (parental guidance) rating tori temple “I’m proud of my family because we’re always there for each other. They are always giving me advice and helping me make decisions about my future. My parents are always pushing me to give 110 percent in everything I do,” Tori said. Montgomery, AL parents’ perspective Tori’s parents admire their daughter’s love for her family, her dedication to loving others and her determination to complete her goals. “We have given Tori room to grow by letting her explore her interests and being supportive of her endeavors as she matures into a young woman of character,” Wanda Temple said. parent-to-parent “Always put 110 percent of yourself in everything you do,” Wanda said. “Treat others with kindness and respect because your smile might turn a bleak situation into one of hope.” Their advice to parents is to understand that all children are unique, as they have learned while raising Tori and her two siblings. “Not all learn, communicate, grow and experience life the same way. Let them pursue with guidance areas they love. Let them fail but get back up and try again, and love unconditionally in all things.” L30 | Winter 2015 www.potentialmagazine.com