Life in Poverty: Defying The Odds

My life as a fourth-born in a poor family was not one anyone would wish to experience, especially at a young age. My parents, who were never able to attend elementary school, struggled to take care of the family. Providing meals for everyone was so difficult that we often skipped them or went without eating altogether. Shelter and clothing were considered basic necessities in any social class, but for us, tattered clothes and a poorly maintained shanty made up our home. I remember sharing a single bed with my family, and sometimes we did not have enough blankets to cover everyone. Despite the challenges, my parents always encouraged us that everything would be okay someday. I also believed that one day, my family would experience a better life.

Education was highly ridiculed, especially for the girl child in our Muslim-dominated society. The traditional belief was that a woman's place was in the kitchen, farm, or taking care of children. Education was reserved for men and the few individuals who were lucky enough to win scholarships and further their studies abroad. However, I firmly believed that no situation in life is permanent, and I vowed to change this course of events one day (ASHBERY, pp. 1-2).

Defying the Odds

My journey to success began when I defied the odds and went to school like other children. Despite discrimination and gender profiling, I performed well and was occasionally among the top students in class. I believed that success comes to those who go the extra mile to achieve it, and this mentality paid off when I secured a scholarship for my high school education. This opportunity was essential in shaping my life, and I successfully graduated and joined college, where I pursued a degree in finance and investment analysis.

This experience served as a call to marginalized boys and girls that anything is possible with the will to succeed. Today, I am an accomplished investment banker and financial analyst working at Deloitte Touche, an international audit and consulting firm. I have been able to support my family with my earnings, and I strive to eradicate poverty and other societal problems (Kass, pp. 17).

Conclusion

My childhood experiences taught me resilience, determination, and the power of education. I believe that regardless of one's background, anyone can succeed with hard work, dedication, and perseverance. My story is proof that the path to success is not always easy, but it is possible.

Works cited

1. ASHBERY, JOHN. "My Philosophy Of Life". Midwest Studies In Philosophy 33.1 (2009): 1-2. Web.
2. Kass, Leon. Life, Liberty, And The Defense Of Dignity. 1st ed. San Francisco: Encounter Books, 2002. Print.