We do not all start on an equal footing. A wide range of factors entirely out of a child’s control will place them on a path. For some, the course may not alter significantly from the original track, often not because of the individual but also due to others and societal systems who keep them on their supposed and projected path.
That does not necessarily need to be the case. All too often, we assess people because of their original circumstances or their profile. We assume and immediately judge, both positive and negative, relying on our prejudice. All it requires to change a person’s trajectory is one person to believe in them, to see the person behind the biased labels of society, and to guide, support, and encourage. Hope, promise, and inspiration can change that path one step at a time.
Even if only a slight deviation from the original path, taking a step in a different direction will compound if one remains on the new course. Soon, the individual finds themselves in a very different place. It does not occur instantly, and nor does it happen without setbacks. It requires perseverance and determination.
It takes one person to believe that the individual is not damaged and then show them the path and nudge them to stay on course. You may be the one.
