Motivation

“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily.”
Zig Ziglar

During my nine years in Army, I distinctly remember Sgt. Jones losing his legs in 2003 during an IED explosion while serving in Iraq. He was sent home early. After the rest of our battalion returned home, we would go visit Sgt. Jones and try to make him happy. Due to stress and other factors, his wife left him and took their kids with her. Although he tried not to let it on, we could tell he was sad; not only did he lose his legs, he lost his family.  He made progress though. He received prosthetic legs and learned to walk again. I did not know it at the time, but he was no doubt working with an occupational therapist. People like Sgt. Jones and other friends from my Army days continue to motivate me to push forward and be thankful for each and every blessing I have.

Early morning are the best times for me to go out running. I like running outside, my mind wanders and I forget that I am running. During these runs, I think I am my most creative because I have no other distractions.

I have five brothers and two sisters, the three oldest brothers and older sister, were born in Mexico. My brother was an artist – the best in Houston. He has five kids whom I love, but he is not a good father. My younger sister is a strong and mother of five; three of them are autistic. She tries, but has a difficult time trying to manage her life. We grew up without a father. My mother made sacrifices and was not always able to be a good role model. I learned from mistakes that I made and my family has made. I am not perfect, but I do not want my kids to live without a father. I want them to have a feeling of security hope and faith that they can overcome any struggles they may face in life. I believe that higher education at HCC which will lead to an OTA career that will help to provide this security and hope in my own family one day.

My advice to other people is to live your life to the fullest, not foolish. Surround yourself with people who keep you motivated and can inspire your creativity.