"Beauty lies beneath the surface: Never judge a book by its cover."
At a young age, I grew up in foster care, experiencing a childhood marked by sadness and confusion. By the time I was 10 years old, tragedy struck when my mother was fatally shot while sitting in a vehicle. Just a month later, my father, struggling with drugs, tried to harm me, leaving me feeling lost and unable to express myself.
My journey led me to a foster parent who seemed to care more about money than my well-being, leading to frequent trouble and escapes. By age 12, I was tired of the mistreatment and ran away, only to find myself living on the streets and getting involved in dangerous activities, which eventually landed me in prison for seven years, from 14 to 18 then 22 to 25.
During my time in prison, I had recurring dreams of a large place filled with people singing, an image that stayed with me. Upon release, I found myself in a Christian halfway house, where I suddenly realized that the place from my dreams was real. This revelation sparked a desire for change, though it was a rocky path, and I struggled with suicidal thoughts to escape my loneliness.
Everything changed when I met a pastor who shared a message, he felt compelled to deliver from the Holy Spirit. He told me not to lose faith, as I would overcome my struggles and prosper. This message resonated deeply, especially as I prepared to move to Hawaii with only $350, the cloths on my back and the dirt i picked up off the dirt field i was sleeping in during winter snowy weather and the support of my amazing girlfriend now fiancé.
Since arriving in Hawaii four years ago, I have found peace and purpose. I've built a beautiful family and finally discovered who I am. This journey has been a testament to resilience and the power of faith, reminding me that even in the darkest times, there is hope for a brighter future.
Growing up, life was tumultuous, filled with uncertainty and challenges. Through it all, one constant provided solace and purpose: car detailing. From a young age, I found myself drawn to the meticulous process of cleaning and restoring vehicles. It was more than just a hobby; it became a sanctuary, a place where I could find peace and focus amidst the chaos.
Detailing cars taught me the value of patience and attention to detail, skills that were sorely lacking in my tumultuous childhood. Each vehicle presented a new canvas, a fresh challenge to transform neglect into beauty. In those moments, I found a sense of control and accomplishment that was often absent in other areas of my life.
As I navigated the challenges of foster care and the tragedy of losing my parents, detailing became a refuge—a way to channel my emotions and express myself. The methodical process of washing, polishing, and waxing became a form of therapy, a way to cope with the pain and uncertainty that surrounded me.
Detailing also provided a sense of community and belonging. Growing up, I was fortunate to be around skilled detailers who took me under their wing, teaching me the nuances of the craft. These mentors became surrogate family members, offering guidance and support when I needed it most.
Moreover, detailing taught me valuable life lessons—discipline, perseverance, and the importance of craftsmanship. These skills not only helped me rebuild my life but also provided a pathway to a career and a sense of purpose.
Today, as I look back on my journey, I am grateful for the role detailing has played in shaping my life. It has been a constant companion through the darkest of times and a source of joy during the happiest moments. Detailing has not only helped me survive; it has empowered me to thrive, proving that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for growth and beauty