Unwavering Teenage Resilience

A couple weeks ago, one of our teens shared with me what her life is like outside of our programs while we drove to an event.

 She wakes up at 4 am, prepares for school, makes breakfast for herself and her brother, then walks him to school before catching the bus at 7 am. Missing it means being late, as public buses run every hour and the next bus would take far too long to get to her high school.

I couldn't comprehend the sacrifices she made daily. When asked about her parents, she explained her mother's responsibilities and how she manages her younger sister's drop-off before heading to work.

Despite her heavy load, this incredible teen also ensures her brother's safe return from the YMCA after school. Her quiet strength and selflessness shone through, even in our brief conversation. Our conversation felt too short; I wanted more time, both to learn about her and to offer a longer rest in the backseat.

This is one of many stories the kids in our neighborhood hold. We are consistently in an intimate proximity of silent suffering and unwavering resilience.

-Ester, Unidos South OC Volunteer Coordinator