The Courage to Succeed: A True American Dream. -Book Series, Chapter 5

 

Chapter 5

"Adversity introduces a man to himself." — Albert Einstein

Curb Balls

I recall when life was uncertain, but let me begin with a moment of joy: November 20, 1999, the day of my high school graduation. It was a day I had long anticipated, filled with pride and a sense of accomplishment. That moment felt like the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, a beacon of hope and a promise of a bright future. But little did I know that just 22 days later, on December 11, 1999, everything would instantly change.

That morning, I woke up feeling disoriented, and a strange sense of unease settled over me. I noticed that I was lying in bed the opposite way; I remembered falling asleep. It was as if someone had turned me around, though I couldn't explain why or how. It felt odd and unsettling, but I tried to brush it off. Mireya, the homeowner of the rental house we were staying at, told me my mother had left early for errands, leaving money for my lunch. It was strange; my mother wasn't one to go without a word, especially on a Saturday morning. The urgency of her departure puzzled me.

I looked at the clock and realized it was nearly 11 a.m.—an hour I rarely saw while still in bed. My daily routine had always been rigid: I woke up at 4:30 a.m., caught the bus by 5:30 a.m., and joined the line for morning prayers by 6 a.m.

But that morning was different. It felt like I was in a fog. I wondered if someone had given me something to make me sleep so deeply. To this day, I still don't know.

As I sat down for lunch, I rechecked the time—12:30 pm. I watched the seconds tick by, each feeling heavier than the last. When the clock struck 12:35, something extraordinary happened. I saw a human and ethereal figure move down the hallway and out the main door. It paused beside me, and I felt a gentle kiss on my cheek. In that instant, an image of my mother in a casket flashed through my mind. I shook my head, trying to dispel the unsettling vision, but I couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong.

Agitated, I went to a neighbor's house next door, feeling a growing dread. Within minutes, my cousin arrived, her face pale with worry. She told me that my mother might have had an accident, possibly a heart attack. The words didn't seem real; I was confused, my mind racing to catch up with the reality I was being pulled into. We walked to my cousin's house, about ¾ of a mile away, every step feeling like an eternity. When we arrived, I waited anxiously; my heart was pounding...

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The Courage to Succeed: A True American Dream. -Book Series, Chapter 3

 

Chapter 3

My Father's Journey

"The greatest legacy one can pass on to one's children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one's life, but rather a legacy of character and faith." – Rev. Billy Graham.

I vividly remember the shift in my father’s life when I was around 5 years old. It was 1987, the last time I saw him drunk on the porch of our home. I didn’t understand what was happening then, but something inside him changed shortly after. The man I had known, with all his flaws and struggles, was suddenly not the same. One of my earliest memories of this transformation was when he took me to an evangelical church. I was captivated by the lively music, the heartfelt prayers, and the congregation's fervor. It starkly contrasted the solemn rituals of Catholic masses I had attended before.

Years later, I understood that this marked the beginning of his spiritual journey to faith in Jesus Christ—a journey that would profoundly shape his life and mine.

My father was born in Corozal, Sucre, Colombia, steeped in a Roman Catholic tradition. As a boy, he served as an altar server and grew up immersed in Catholic practices, teachings, and celebrations. His early education at the Escuela Normal in Corozal set him on a path to becoming an educator, and for many years, he taught in schools across the Sucre Department. His life seemed structured and predictable from the outside, but a more profound spiritual calling awaited him.

As an educator, he was assigned to a school in Chalán, Sucre, a small, rural town where life presented unforeseen challenges. While there, he fell gravely ill. His condition baffled local doctors, and traditional remedies failed to bring relief. During this critical time, a former classmate, Milka, mentioned her family’s evangelical church and suggested he attend a healing service. Out of desperation, he agreed.

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The Courage to Succeed: A True American Dream. -Book Series, Chapter 2

 

Chapter 2

"Childhood is the most beautiful of all life's seasons, full of wonder, discovery, and the magic of growing up." — Unknown.

Childhood 

It was August 18, 1989. I was only six years old, but the image remains ingrained. The assassination of Luis Carlos Galán Sarmiento, a presidential candidate in Colombia, marked the beginning of the horrors my young mind would witness. Could it have been any different? Living in Colombia, South America, during the Pablo Escobar era was synonymous with constant danger. To me, it was the bombing era. We didn't need a TV to witness the horrors; they were in the streets. Walking with my mother through the central plaza, I couldn't avoid the graphic, uncensored headlines of violent crimes on the front pages of newspapers. As a child, I learned more about dead bodies just by walking on the street than a first-year medical student at a morgue.

Early one morning that same year, probably January—as I excitedly prepared for my first day of elementary school, I vividly remember my bunny-like backpack, half electric blue and half white, with bunny ears and moving eyes. While waiting quietly for the private transport to take me to school, I watched a beautiful Dalmatian sniffing a palm leaf in the middle of the road. As I focused on the curious dog, I saw a blue Jeep drive by and instantly kill the dog right before my eyes. What followed was pure horror: the owner, a woman, screamed at the top of her lungs, and then my memory went blank.

I have always felt that my childhood was stolen from me because of these exposures. My mother did what she could to protect me, but there wasn't much she could do about the pervasive environment we lived in. The previous year, our house had been robbed. My parents had hired a housekeeper that morning before they went to work, and I was barely four years old. I used to joke, even today, that the woman emptied our entire home but left me sitting alone on the front porch. The joke goes: was I so bad that not even the thieves wanted to take me?

I saw her ironing clothes, emptying my mom's closet, and putting things in boxes. When I asked her what she was doing, she grabbed my hand and put me outside the front door. I remember being found by my mom outside, wearing only my underwear. How dare she leave me there? Later, when the police caught her, I was brought to the station as a witness. It wasn't enough that I had seen her take everything; as a four-year-old, I had to identify the criminal who could have taken me from my parents. That experience still hurts to this day. Where were the adults supposed to protect me, a young child?

Around the same time, my parents were having a heated argument—voices raised, tension thick in the air. In a moment of rage, my father grabbed what I believed was a shoe and hurled it, aiming it at my mother. I don't know what compelled me, but I instinctively jumped into the middle.

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The Courage to Succeed: A true American Dream; Book Series - Chapter 1

 

                                                                

Chapter 1:

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, but understanding where we come from provides the map for the path we take." — Unknown

In the beginning

It was a Friday, November 5th, 1982, in Sincelejo-Sucre, Colombia, South America. According to my mother's account, she went for what she believed to be a routine prenatal appointment. She was about 34 weeks pregnant at the time. The OBGYN doctor, Dr. Blanco, examined her and delivered an urgent message: "Are you ready to have this baby? Let's do it; the baby needs to come out yesterday. Your blood pressure is extremely high." The news was sudden, like a bolt from the blue. That very evening, she underwent an emergency C-section. I was born around 5 PM.

Brimming with joy at my arrival, my father brought mariachis to the hospital and serenaded us with the song "Eres mi Niña Bonita"—"You are my beautiful girl." His happiness was palpable, a testament to the strength of our family's love. Meanwhile, I was placed in an incubator, having arrived a bit more prematurely than expected, barely 34 weeks into gestation. My mother was filled with fear as she looked at my tiny, fragile form. She cried, worried I might not make it. Even my three-year-old cousin Diana, who came to visit, remarked on my long, skinny legs.

My early years were filled with the vibrant colors and sounds of our small town, Sincelejo-Sucre. I grew up surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of Colombia, from the lively music in the streets to the delicious aromas of our traditional dishes. My parents, Rocio and Manuel, instilled in me a deep appreciation for our Spanish heritage and the importance of family. Later on in this book, you may sense an ironic tone. The story of my name is a tale of creativity and fate. My father found a book or pamphlet with the French name Rosabelle. Thinking he could give it a Spanish twist, he removed the "-le," creating Rosabel. Later, he discovered that Rosabel was an English name. To add more layers to my identity, my mother chose Virginia as my middle name, another English name. Thus, I became Rosabel Virginia Gonzalez Quinones—a mix of English and Spanish names, with Gonzalez and Quinones reflecting my Spanish heritage. Quinones was a rare last name in our small town that stood out even in the local phone book.

Allow me to tell you about the most wonderful woman I have ever met—my mother, Rocio, whose name means "morning dawn." Affectionately known as "la seño" or "the teacher," she began her career as an elementary school teacher, proudly serving the government for 34 years. But her talents extended beyond the classroom; she was also a well-known dress decorator in our small town. Towards the end of her life, she pursued a master's degree in arts, showcasing her dedication to lifelong learning and personal growth. Her commitment to education and self-improvement has always been a guiding light in my life. My mother was one of the founders of the elementary school where she served for many years, and her name remains etched in the school hymn and emblem—a testament to her lasting impact.

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The Courage to Succeed: A true American Dream; Book Series -Foreword

 

Foreword

I reflected deeply on the experiences and influences shaping my life and career when I began writing this book. This book is not just a collection of thoughts and stories; it is a tapestry woven from the threads of my personal and professional life. The inspiration for this book comes from a lifetime of learning and growth punctuated by moments of joy, challenge, and profound realization.

In writing this book, I aim to share the knowledge and insights I have gained over the years. I hope to offer a perspective that resonates with readers, providing them with tools and reflections that may aid them in their own journeys. Whether seeking to understand health and wellness better or simply looking for a companion in your thoughts on life, this book is for you.

Writing has been as enlightening as it has been challenging. It has reminded me of the importance of perseverance, self-reflection, and shared stories' transformative power. As you read these pages, I hope you find both solace and inspiration and perhaps a bit of your own story reflected in mine, forging a connection through our shared human experiences.

In these pages, I embark on a journey through time and memory, tracing the footsteps of my past to understand the path ahead better. Join me as I explore the profound impact of beginnings, such as the complexities of identity and the enduring quest for meaning in a world shaped by history and hope.

From the mistaken French-inspired name 'Rosabella' to my mother's deliberate choices of 'Virginia' as my middle name and the Spanish solid surnames Gonzalez and Quinones, my identity was shaped by layers of heritage and circumstance. But how can you share your story and truth without dishonoring the ones you love?

I deeply love my father and mother. However, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to share my story. As I write these pages, I strive to be as objective and truthful as possible, acknowledging that there will always be a subjective element. My intention is not to offend or dishonor anyone. When people, especially those who have known me since childhood, read this book, they will see that I have opened my heart and shared my experiences with the utmost respect, without embellishment or omission. My life has been shaped by learning experiences, both my own and others, and this book can offer a breath of fresh air, fostering learning and healing.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your companionship and understanding mean the world to me. May this book serve as a beacon of hope, strength, and love, a testament to the power of shared experiences and the resilience of the human spirit.

Warm regards,

 

Rosabel Zohfeld

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The Courage to Succeed: A true American Dream; Book Series -Dedicatory

Dedicatory 

This book is dedicated to the memory of my mother, whose unwavering love and boundless wisdom inspire me daily. Her spirit lives on these pages, guiding my journey with her enduring grace and strength.

To my beloved children, may you always find courage and joy in every step of your path. Your laughter and curiosity are my greatest treasures, and I hope this book serves as a testament to the power of love and resilience that she instilled in us all.

To my wonderful husband, whose steadfast support and love provides the foundation upon which I build my dreams. Your partnership means the world to me.

And to those angels called friends, whose kindness, understanding, and companionship make life's journey brighter and more meaningful. Your presence in my life is a gift I cherish deeply.

Keeping Hope Alive in Turbulent Times and Election Seasons

Google images 2024

In recent years, many of us have felt the weight of uncertainty, stress, and division, especially during election cycles. The constant barrage of news, debates, and political conflict can make the world feel unstable. However, even in these turbulent times, hope is not only possible but essential.

The first step in holding onto hope is to zoom out and recognize that turbulent times are not unique to our generation. History is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, filled with periods of political strife, economic uncertainty, and societal change. Yet, through these periods, societies have found ways to adapt, grow, and move forward. Understanding this larger context can reassure us that today's challenges are part of a broader, evolving human experience.

One of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of turbulent times is the feeling of being powerless. During election seasons, when political and societal forces seem overwhelming, it's easy to feel our efforts don't matter. But hope grows when we focus on what we can control.

Start with your actions. How can you contribute to positive change in your community? Remember, even the smallest, intentional actions can ripple outwards, Whether volunteering, having respectful conversations, or simply being kind to those around you. We may not control the outcome of elections or global events, but we control our responses and impact on others. This empowerment can fuel hope.

The constant cycle of news and social media can make the world feel more chaotic than it is. While staying informed is essential, excessive exposure to negative media can amplify feelings of hopelessness and fear.

Consider setting boundaries for your news consumption. Take breaks from social media, especially if it's causing you stress. Curate what you read and watch to include positive, uplifting stories. This could involve subscribing to newsletters that focus on inspiring news, following social media accounts that share positive stories, or setting specific times for news consumption to avoid constant exposure. You can maintain a more balanced, hopeful perspective by managing your media intake.

Human beings are not meant to navigate difficulties alone. One of the most powerful antidotes to fear and anxiety is connection. In times of uncertainty, lean on your community—family, friends, and even spiritual or professional networks. These networks can provide support, guidance, and a sense of belonging, helping you feel less isolated and more resilient in the face of challenges.

Conversations with others who share your concerns can help you feel grounded and understood. Conversely, engaging with people with different perspectives can offer a broader view and reduce feelings of division. Finding strength in the community reinforces the idea that we are all together, navigating the same challenges.

Practicing gratitude can be a lifeline in times of stress. Focusing on the good—no matter how small—can restore balance and perspective when the world feels overwhelming. Gratitude shifts our focus from what is going wrong to what is still correct.

Additionally, mindfulness practices, such as meditation or simply pausing and breathing, can help calm the mind and center you in the present moment. Instead of constantly worrying about the future, mindfulness helps us stay grounded today.

Stay grounded in what you believe is essential when the world feels chaotic. Your inner convictions, whether your faith, values or a sense of purpose, can provide an anchor amidst uncertainty.

For those of us who believe in something more significant—God, a higher power, or the enduring human spirit—these beliefs can give us hope even when things seem bleak. They remind us that, despite the present uncertainty, a more excellent plan or purpose is constantly unfolding. One possible unanswered question from the text might be: How can individuals maintain hope and positivity in the face of ongoing challenges and uncertainty?

Hope isn't passive; it's an active choice we make every day. Despite the turbulence of our times—political conflict, societal changes, or the pressures of daily life—we can choose hope. By staying grounded in our values, focusing on what we can control, and nurturing our connections with others, we can survive these times and find ways to thrive.

Remember, hope is not about ignoring challenges or pretending everything is fine. It's about acknowledging reality while holding onto the belief that we have the power to shape a better future. As we face turbulent times and the unpredictability of election seasons, may we choose hope and actively work to keep it alive. The possibility of a better future is always within our reach.