At seventeen, Michael felt lost in a world filled with expectations and uncertainty. As a foster teen, Michael had moved through several homes, each one offering a different experience but no permanent sense of belonging. With graduation on the horizon, the pressure to succeed weighed heavily on his shoulders. He often found himself grappling with doubt about his future and his worth.
One day, while at an event at a local park, Michael was drawn into the Choosing Happy booth, which is dedicated to promoting positivity through personal growth and also helping foster kids through Choosing Happy With You, he decided to attend one of our workshops that focuses on self-discovery and empowerment.
The workshop was led by Jason, a mentor who had once faced similar struggles. Jason’s story resonated with Michael—he had also experienced the instability of foster care but had transformed his pain into purpose by helping others. Through engaging activities and heartfelt discussions, Jason encouraged the participants to reflect on their strengths and aspirations.
As the workshop went on, Michael found himself opening up about his fears and dreams. Jason always listens intently and provides reassurances such as. “You have the potential to create something incredible.”, “Embrace your journey and take it one step at a time.”
Inspired by the encouragement he received; Michael began to seek mentorship from Jason. Their meetings have become a catalyst for change. Each session, Jason challenges Michael to step outside his comfort zone. “What if I’m not good enough?” he once asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Jason’s response was “Failure is just a stepping stone toward success. It’s how we grow. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about progress.” With renewed motivation, Michael has begun to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
As graduation is approaching, Michael stands on the cusp of a new chapter. He has secured an internship with a local design firm and will be applying to colleges with graphic design programs, no longer shackled by fear or uncertainty. The transformation in him is clear—instead of feeling overwhelmed, he now radiates a sense of purpose and determination.