You must play in order to win.

I recall my mom mantra growing up was “El que no juega, es el que no gana”- the one that doesn’t play is the one that doesn’t win. She was a hustler! she hustled her way out in life and always wanted to live a better life. My nickname for her is ‘ESPERANZA’- ‘HOPE’. And that is because she would always have a brighter outlook on what tomorrow will bring. Growing up in the slums is not an easy life, she only made it to 2nd grade in elementary school. All she knew was numbers, oh is she good with numbers! you can’t cheat her when it comes to math! I learned from early on that with drive you will accomplish your goals!

Those who don’t play, are the ones that don’t win! Start now!

One day, she came to me and confessed that her weakness was writing, she barely could read but felt confident in her slight ability to get around with the little bit that she knew. As for writing, it was where it hit her self-esteem. She claimed it was ugly and unreadable- for that reason was why she was always hesitant to sign any documents. It was an aha moment, why all her legal documents had an X on it and some scribbles.

Changing her mindset

Rather than making fun of her and shaming her (like my dad would do) I confessed to her that i was willing to help her learn her signature. I told her we can work on it here in my room, silently and no one will know ‘our secret’. You should have seen her excitement!!!- she learned how to write her signature and more! Later, when she was ready to unshackle herself from the abuse my dad reigned for over 30years over her, she decided to prep for it and acquire the tools that she was going need to free herself.

The first thing she did, was enrolled into a GED class and learned all the things she had missed out in her childhood. Coupled with her determination and willingness to grow, she overcame many obstacles. Lastly, she eventually got her naturalization and became a citizen!! The determination was like no other! In details she learned to read, write, increased her math abilities, and even learned a new language. Finally, she accomplished her goals.

ITS in you- Your POTENTIAL!

Regardless of it all, she has always pushed through and have come out on the other side. This is where I get my will power from. She is strong and resilient! She has taught me that those who don’t play the game are the ones who don’t have a chance of winning. Regardless of what today is, tomorrow is a new opportunity! When something seems to be so far-fetched, rather than giving up just break it down and focus on the today with an ‘eye’ on the results of tomorrow. You too can set your mind, work towards, and accomplish all of your goals!

Don’t Dream It and Get It Done!

Niam Lewis