Time to Grow Up

What motivated you to get your GED degree? Well, first I would have to say my two kids, but especially my daughter, who is 14 moths old. I want more for her—a better life—not to follow in my foot steps. I grew up spoiled, with everything handed to me. I just feel it’s time to grow up, now that I’m 27. To be more responsible, not just for my kids, but for myself. I seem to never accomplish or finish anything. I just want to make a start by completing and passing the GED test.

How have your friends and family helped you? Well, I’m very secretive. I really don’t talk to friends and family about these things. If I did, I know they would be supportive. I don’t know, it’s just me to keep everything in.

What problems have you faced? Where do I start? Well, first I had my first child at 18 (he’s 9 now). I had to deal with his deadbeat father. Second, I left home rebelliously, which put me and my son in a log of dangerous situations. I became homeless, had relationships with people for over two years, worked at a place I shouldn’t have even been, let alone worked in. I ended up in a long-lasting, abusive relationship, and so much more. However, there was an angel watching over me, because I made it through all of that alive. That’s why I know I can do this and get my GED if I put my mind to it.

What do you hope to gain from getting your GED degree? I hope to gain pride, completion, and closure. I guess most of all, I want an accomplishment. I always wanted to open a chain of restaurants. That would motivate me to follow my dreams.

Do you have more to your story? I want the best for my kids. Like I mentioned, I was spoiled and given everything. That’s the reason I believe that I’m 27 and still have no GED diploma. I want to give my kids everything. I want to show them that, in life, nothing is really handed to you. I want them to be successful. I want them to know that all their hard work will pay off and get them to their goals. That’s where the real success comes from.