When life offers obstacles, follow your instincts
If it's not one thing, it's another …
There is always a problem or test you have to get through in life. Sometimes it's just a test and sometimes people make things harder for themselves – and for other people. The whole thing is, when you have something you are working hard toward, you have to keep on when people throw things in your way.
Michael and I are starting our own business – Brothers' Dogs – and opening up a hot dog cart. We are waiting for the lottery with the Bureau of Licenses and Inspections so we can get an actual location for the cart. We are in the lottery for this month. There are a lot of people trying to get into the lottery, but I believe we will be able to get a spot in Center City.
I can't wait until we actually get the spot. I'm ready to get started ASAP, but we have been waiting for some extra months now. I can't wait to get everything rolling. I'll be happy I stayed on top of things when it pays off.
Obstacles can be big or small. Everything happens for a reason, so get through your obstacles no matter what. You can get past whatever is in your way and get to where you want to be.
You have to work hard at whatever you try to do. We all have bad luck here and there, but if you are consistent, you will succeed. For example:
Last month, I was having a bad day. I wanted to leave, but I decided to just take a break, and come back 10 minutes later. When I did, I met people from the Give It Forward Foundation and they started telling me how great I'm doing, and saying I inspire a lot of people, and they wound up giving me a really generous donation.
I'm happy I was chosen out of so many other people; that made me feel great and made me feel appreciated. I will get my son some sneakers and save the rest. And this year my birthday wasn't just another day for me.
My idea of people and the public has changed. I've changed my mind about life, seen a different side of things. My experience with One Step Away is great. I have a lot of opportunities coming my way. I feel as though I've learned a lot, and I'm so happy that people acknowledge me and see how hard I'm working. Thanks to all of my supporters and everyone who talks to me on the daily basis; it means a lot!
It's a wonderful thing. I came a long way and plan on going farther.
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One Step Away is Philadelphia's first newspaper produced by those without homes for those with homes.