In life, we often encounter unexpected challenges that may seem unfair and overwhelming. I can relate to these struggles on a personal level. From a young age, I experienced the hardships of poverty, wore hand-me-downs, and endured hurtful words from others. My family relied on welfare, food stamps, and government housing, and it felt like there was no escape from this cycle of struggle.
Statistics painted a bleak picture of my future. Children who experience domestic violence are said to be more prone to depression, drug abuse, and becoming teenage parents. Yet, I defied those odds. My entire life has been a testament to overcoming obstacles that should have led to failure.
I was born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, a city known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and friendly people. But behind the sunny facade, My mother and siblings were survivors of domestic violence, and we constantly moved from place to place seeking refuge. We relied on the kindness of friends, parks, and even churches when our own family turned us away. Social workers would visit, their aim being to keep the family together despite the abuse. In the midst of these challenges, we were fortunate to have a church friend who became our angel and godmother. She fought for us and made a significant difference in our lives.
As if growing up quickly wasn’t enough, I faced another devastating blow. My sister Michelle tragically passed away in a hit-and-run incident on Christmas Eve when I was just three years old. To make matters worse, my mother suffered a stroke following this tragedy, leaving her in need of recovery. When faced with unimaginable circumstances, we have a choice to make. We can allow the situation to control us, change us for the worse, and fill us with bitterness and dysfunction.
Throughout all these trials, I learned that I had to become independent and fight for myself. I advocated for my own needs and proved myself as a hard worker. I realized that relying on someone else to lift me up all the time was not realistic. I had to learn to stand on my own two feet and take action. I made sacrifices, giving up social activities to earn money for my family. From the age of 14, I worked tirelessly after school, on weekends, and during school holidays. I can’t recall a time when I was unemployed. I took on various jobs, from sweeping floors and cleaning shelves to serving customers and folding clothes. I worked alongside my mother and sisters, cleaning churches and houses, as we supported each other through it all.
So, to all of you who may find yourselves labelled as “statistics of failure,” I urge you to be strong and focus on yourselves. Face reality head-on, hold yourself accountable for your actions, push past the pain, learn to embrace what you fear, and live up to your fullest potential. Discover who you truly are and let that resilience and determination propel you forward. Remember, even in the face of adversity, it is possible to find strength, overcome obstacles, and create a life that defies the odds.
Onwards&Upwards 