Don’t ever give up! (part I)

“When do I begin the process?” I asked the high school guidance counselor about college admissions.

Academic grades were average and English was my second language. I had tutoring services for Reading comprehension, Algebra, Geometry and Statistics. I disliked History and Biology. Writing was a daily challenge too.

“Was I struggling in maintaining a decent G.P.A? “

Yes, indeed!

Counselor’s response was poignant, “Don’t bother. You will never amount to anything.” She walked away, and disengaged from our brief conversation.

“How was I supposed to react?”

I was only 15 years old and was an aspiring freshman in High School. I was ready to overcome educational challenges yet needed some direction and ton of assistance.

I was quite disheartened and discouraged throughout high school. Fortunately, I completed high school and enrolled at a local community college soon thereafter.

The recurrent theme in high school was,  “I’m not good enough.”

Despite of my inadequacies, I developed effective coping strategies one day at a time and improved on study habits over time.

As soon as I completed one degree, I enrolled in another one of interest.

Thirteen years later, I defended a doctoral dissertation in front of a challenging committee and a professional audience.

Consistency and optimism are key ingredients for success.

Today, I’m a licensed Mental Health Counselor & a Registered Clinical Supervisor in the State of Florida, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst worldwide and a Psychologist in the State of Tennessee.

God definitely has a plan for all of us!

God wants for all of us to prosper and run the ‘race of life’ well. He doesn’t want for us to be discouraged much less give up. He encourages us to persevere and rejoice in every struggle, in the midst of adversity and hardships.

The Lord is always faithful.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6:9‬ ‭

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Just show up

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One of my colleagues from graduate school would always be available. If Dayra would say she was going to be at your house or call you, she would always follow thru with her commitment.

Yes! She would always show up.

Her level of commitment was remarkable and admirable.

I’ve lost contact with Dayra over the years yet she is much alive in my heart today.

Dayra is a dependable gal, a perfect role model.

I’ve never been 100% there for anyone, not even for myself.

‘How come?!’

Busyness, hardships, high fatigue level, and a fast-paced lifestyle are just few circumstances that may hinder the progress towards building community.

Today, I value existing ‘Dayras’ in my life. As a matter of fact, I want to be more like a ‘Dayra’ and nourish these relationships one day at a time.

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9:6‬ ‭NIV

Over the years, I’ve learned not only to prioritize but focus on what’s relevant in life. The relationship with God, others and self are paramount.

Taking time to nourish my relationship with God, family, friends and self on a daily basis takes commitment, energy and focus.

Waking up early in the morning, praying for courage and strength, and showing up in life also matters at the end of the day.

Are you ready to show up? I’m all in.