He had been lifting me up all along.

When I asked how much was in the fund, Ms. Reynolds smiled.

— “Enough to take care of everything. Your education… fully covered.”

For the first time since he passed, I felt like I could breathe again.

A week later, I applied to the best social work program I could find.

I got accepted.

That night, I stood outside, looking at the sky.

— “I’m going, Grandpa,” I whispered. “I’m going to do what I promised. I’m going to help others… the way you helped me.”

And for the first time…

I didn’t feel alone anymore.