To say my childhood was dysfunctional is an understatement. Although I didn't realize it until later in life, when I saw how others lived, it became clear to me that my childhood was something no one should have to go through. But of course, I did go through it. Because of the good influences in my life, I learned how to function as a contributing member of society. I believe I have succeeded whereby all accounts I should probably have just become a statistic. I would like to think that my life can be used as an example of what people can accomplish no matter what background they come from; by surrounding yourself with good people just about anything can be overcome.