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VIEWPOINT OF A TEXAS CHALLENGE ACADEMY CADET
I want to tell you that I am so proud of you and how far you have come since you came to Texas ChalleNGe Academy.
I want to remind you that when you return home that life is going to continue to get better and to not give up. I know all you ever wanted was to have your mom care about you, but you must realize she has her own story and did the best she could.
Your mom never had a happy childhood; her parents abused her when she was little and she never had a chance to be a teenager. She didn’t go to school because she took care of her siblings. She wanted to become a doctor, but she had to give up her dreams.
Your mom was tough on you because all she wanted was for you to fulfill your own dreams. She loves you. Always love her because she gave you a tough mindset and will always keep you pushing forward.
I also want to let you know how proud I am that you haven’t tried to harm yourself. You have an amazing future ahead of you. You have learned that drugs are just a distraction and that you can’t escape from your problems. They will be waiting for you long after the high wears off.
Here at TCA, you learned what you needed to work on and started to see the reality of life. You have learned not to rely on people who won’t have your back but to rely on God and your family. You know you can be a better daughter and sister. Keep the confidence that you have found in yourself.
When you get home in December, I hope you read this letter to yourself and know that you were strong enough to complete the TCA challenge and you will be strong enough to make your dreams come true. Don’t give up on yourself and keep putting in the effort. It’s going to be worth it!
