A Step that turns into a Flight

A Step that turns to a Flight

Life is a journey, right? They say every step counts. These are the questions I ask myself as I contemplate the words on this paper: What motivates me and gives me a sense of purpose? Not every day will be filled with sunshine, and not every day will bring rain. However, each day will be filled with opportunities…

When January 1st arrived, my journey in 2024 began. I had been eagerly anticipating this year. After a long 2023, I was very welcoming toward 2024. Preparing for New Year’s Eve, I reflected on my resolutions. One key goal I wanted to focus on for 2024 was to make a meaningful impact. I realized that setting goals to help others was essential for me to have a fulfilling year. That was my intention...

The last ten years of my life have been devoted to the transformative power of education. I progressed from an Associate degree to a Bachelor's, then a Master's, and now I am pursuing a PhD. This journey has unveiled the profound importance of education. My mother, one of my greatest inspirations, faced her own challenges, never finishing high school and later earning her GED. I was too young to grasp the significance of her struggle then. Still, as I forge my own path, I truly understand the opportunities and doors that education can unlock.

One of my goals in 2024 is to give back meaningfully, honoring both my journey and my mother's legacy. I have chosen to volunteer my time to assist others in their pursuit of a GED. This decision has proven to be one of the most rewarding I've ever made. Although it's been challenging, I am immensely grateful for the lessons and experiences from this journey.

When I first started volunteering, I was inspired by the incredible stories of those pursuing their GEDs. I recall listening to a single mom who shared her journey. Working overnight at a hotel, she would return home each morning to care for her son, who has disabilities. After a few hours of sleep, she dedicated two hours to studying for the GED. For her, earning this degree meant everything; it would make her the first in her family to graduate and unlock new opportunities for advancement in her job.

I listened to a young man share his journey of making wrong decisions that led to losing his freedom for a couple of years. One of his heartfelt aspirations was to give back to society by earning his GED, making his family proud, and securing a job that would allow him to contribute positively to the community. Recognizing that his past choices had taken away from others, he chose to focus on his recovery while in prison, determined to better his situation and transform his life for the future.

One of the stories I encountered this year resonated with me. It was about a young girl who aspired to attend Community College but needed her GED first. She bravely shared her journey of having dropped out of high school during COVID, overwhelmed by fear and anxiety about being around others. Despite the challenges of battling anxiety and depression over the past couple of years, she decided to take a courageous step forward by working towards her GED. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength it takes to confront fear and reclaim one's life, transforming anxiety into determination and hope.

Listening to these stories and observing individuals striving for self-improvement resonates with me. Each person faces their own unique struggles, from a single mother working tirelessly to make ends meet to someone who has faced incarceration or a person grappling with social fears. I find myself reflecting on my own journey. This experience enhanced my appreciation for individualism and the diverse perspectives that shape our lives. While we are all on a path of self-betterment, our journeys differ significantly. Some may fly to their goals, others navigate by boat, and others walk their own path. We are all taking steps toward improvement, yet the burdens and challenges we each bear are unique and meaningful in different ways. This understanding has deepened my gratitude for my accomplishments, like earning my high school diploma. In moments of struggle or burnout during my educational pursuit, I remind myself of those I have been able to help along the way. It is humbling to recognize that they have supported me in ways they may not even realize.

In 2024, I took a transformative step that gradually evolved into a profound journey—not solely for myself but for everyone whose story inspired me. Each narrative, filled with resilience and courage, sparked a fire within me. I began sharing these compelling stories on my personal YouTube channel and various other platforms, aiming to connect with individuals who desire to embark on their own journeys or those who doubt their abilities to make a change. I reach out to them with a comforting reminder: "Guess what? You're not alone—many before you felt just as you do." At this pivotal moment, I dive into the remarkable tales of brave women and men who dared to take that initial step. Through their experiences, I illustrate how a seemingly small act can unfold into a significant leap, transforming not just one's life but also serving as a beacon of inspiration for others.

This is not a Red Bull commercial. You can't drink something and suddenly gain the ability to fly. What this truly represents is opportunity. It's about starting your journey and taking that first step. Keep pace with life and discover what drives you. Once you find what enriches and motivates you, you can soar on the wings of aspiration and motivation, helping others along the way.

2024 was a great year filled with wonderful memories and many rewards. I look back and think, "That's a gift." Now, I look forward to what 2025 will bring.

CHEER TO YOU, MY FRIENDS!