#JustBe Magazine November 2015 | Page 21

REAL TALK THE GREAT ESCAPE REWRITE YOU FUTURE I read books and watched films to escape the pain of my situation. The stories made me curious about the life I could have, so I started to imagine the possibilities of my future. Eventually, I wrote my own superhero story, which gave me the power and strength to overcome. My advice to others is simple: BRINGING MY STORY TO LIFE Despite a harsh childhood, I enrolled in the college of my choice on a full scholarship. I also traveled to 14 countries, lived abroad in Africa, and earned a total of four degrees. I am now working on my doctoral degree while employed in a career that changes lives in a meaningful way. It’s safe to say my superhero story came true. think big and imagine endless possibilities. Explore the world by reading stories that are both similar and different from you. Most importantly, write your own story. Your imagination is a powerful tool. Continue to hone it by reading and writing new things. Pretty soon, you’ll be more clever and powerful than the obstacles holding you back.