by Jeramiah, Albuquerque, New Mexico
The hardest task that I had to do was getting my high school diploma. I say this was the most difficult task for me because I would never try or push past my limits. It took many sacrifices and being in trouble for me to realize that I need to get my life straight. It was not easy, but I got through it. I thank my mom and family members so much for their support. If I didn’t have them around, I don’t think I would have made it this far.
I also had many teachers who helped me to get my diploma. I remember when I was behind in work that I would power through every piece of work either by myself or if my mom and teachers got on me to get work. Other things that were happening was that my teachers were not sure if I had enough time to graduate. Another thing was COVID and my slow pending case.
There were so many times I wanted to give up and not do it. I’m thankful for my mom and teachers for being by my side.” I can’t give up” is what I would tell myself “I need and want my diploma”.
The things I found out about myself in the JDC ( Juvenile Detention Center) is I love to read, learn, listen to music and that I am strong and resilient and a person who even though I made a huge mistake in life can learn from what happened and learn from my past. I hope for others is that they learn this important lesson early on in life. I won’t ever forget my graduation ceremony. It may not have been in the best of situations, but it is one of the happiest moments in my life.
What others need to know is that when life gets hard you can and will make it through this phase of life because that’s all it is, a phase. Humans no matter the size, age or any other physical image or race can do anything we put our minds to. We as a people are always evolving. Everyone needs a family and an education. I want to thank my best friend Isabell, my mom, little brothers and grandparents for giving me every possible lesson and love no matter what has happened.
Since being in here I’ve grown mentally and physically stronger, wiser and especially important I’ve learned many things. I cannot wait to keep learning and experiencing more in my lifetime. Life takes forever but we will get through it as long as you keep trying again and again.
The next step is college, and I am very excited and inspired to keep going and be faster and stronger. Thank You. It was the most amazing and emotionally the hardest , but greatest thing I have ever done. I am very honored and happy to be finally done with high school. I know my mom and friends are proud of me. I know because I am proud of myself as well.