My Journey from Hardship to Hope

Once upon a time, I grew up in what seemed like a perfect home. But inside, things were not so great. My parents said, “Do as I say, not as I do.” I felt like I was living in a strict world where I couldn’t be myself.

When I went to college, my life changed. My mom decided she didn’t want to be with my dad anymore, and I had to leave school early because we didn’t have enough money. This was just the beginning of many hard times. The hardest of all was when I lost a baby, and I fell into a deep sadness. But during that sadness, I found hope when I had two beautiful children.

I was a single mom with a two-year-old and a newborn. Money was tight, and I didn’t get enough help from their dad. I had to work low-paying jobs and use welfare to survive. I saw how different life was for people with money and people without it. I wanted a better life for my kids, just like I had as a child.

So, I decided to change my life. I took online classes and learned new skills. I found a job through a temp agency, and I worked really hard. Soon, I became a permanent employee because I wanted to create a better future for my family.

I kept learning and going to trainings. I also enrolled in college to get my degree. I used everything I learned to do better at my job. Slowly but surely, I started moving up in my career. I went from being managed to managing others. I prayed for the life I have now, and I’m so grateful.

Today, I work at an executive level and run my own business. I remember the struggles I faced, like being homeless and sleeping on friends' couches or even in my car with my little ones. My children are my heroes, and I call them my “storm troopers” because they stayed by my side during tough times.

Now, I want to help others believe in themselves and chase their dreams. I want everyone to know that it’s possible to go from having nothing to living a stable and happy life. If I can do it, so can you!