Yajaira C. / Never let anyone take your joy

In foster care, I hated the feeling of being alone. I overcame it by learning to focus on school. I stopped blaming myself for things I couldn't control. I know that I can’t fail myself after being failed by ones I hold dear to my heart.

I am proud that I finished high school as a teen mother, especially having to attend seven different high schools due to placements. Education is the doorway to success! Failures happen all the time, but what matters is how many times we get back up to keep going.

I hope to take my kids on trips to fun places to show them what life is about. I want to let them know that they are safe and cared for, and deserving of love.

My piece of advice would be: always smile. We control our emotions even in the hardest of times. Never let anyone take your joy. Keep showing up. Have a planner and work with a school counselor.