If my life were to be reviewed, measured, and analyzed, many would conclude that I shouldn't be here today. I grew up in a tough town called Casa Blanca in Riverside, California. I was a statistic of barrio (neighborhood) life—a dropout with no hopes of higher education, shackled by circumstances and falsehoods. As a Chicano (Mexican-American), I was limited by preconceived notions that achieving success or my dreams was a mere fallacy.

I can truly say that God intervened in my life. He forgave me of my sins and came into my life, I was changed. From then on, I've been blessed. God saved my life, restored my marriage, made my family stronger, and gave me a joy and hope. I have been married for 25 years and have three wonderful children. My kids have made be so proud. I have my US Marine, my college graduate, and my younger son who is planning on pursuing his higher education as he earns his pilot license.

Being a Chicano/Latino, born and raised in the barrio, is a unique mix of experiences. There's the tribalism and love for the barrio, with bonds made for life. We share in the loss of loved ones to the streets and the tears. We have seen many affected by drug addiction and how destructive it is. There's at least one family member or friend incarcerated. Yet, we also share the joys of family and community. A pride in who we are and where we are from.

I had to take different perspectives on several areas of life, changing and growing in many viewpoints while solidifying others. My new goal was to find balance across various issues, enhancing those things that unite rather than divide. We can still disagree and show love for one another. I truly want to see everyone succeed in life. One of the keys is embracing empathy. Letting empathy be the filter and guide. But I had to start where my roots are, with a message for anyone who has a desire for hope and to chase a dream.

My family and I were already volunteering and participating in community and charity events. One memory that stands out is when we participated in the Loma Linda Children's Hospital Christmas in July. My son and I were dressed up as Star War characters, along with other volunteers. The nurses brought out a little girl who looked very ill. She could barley open her eyes, but you could see her desire to see all the characters. The nurse notified us that she only had a few weeks to live. It was shocking to hear about this little girl. I couldn't help my heart from breaking for her and her family. It was an honor to play a small role in bringing a little happiness to her life. I was also proud of my kids willingness to volunteer right next to me. These kinds of experiences were already breaking aspects of the cycle. Still, there was more to achieve and give.

I knew I had to break the cycle of not being educated. I had to step out in faith and venture into a challenging place. This journey began by earning my GED. I went on to earn my B.A. in History and Political Science, graduating with the honor of Summa Cum Laude.

I didn't stop there. A surge of confidence led me to enter a poetry competition, which I won. The feeling was amazing. The first time I shared a poem openly, and someone other than my family liked it. It was a confidence booster.

I then fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming an author, with a strong desire to help break the cycle of the barrio through my writing. I wanted to share hope, while addressing those issues that plague neighborhoods across the country.

I have been an education advocate ever since I earned my degree. Introducing alternative ways to earn a degree from a regionally accredited university without going into debt or taking 4-6 years. I knew this information could change lives for generations. I wanted to contribute in breaking the cycle of the lack of an education in marginalized communities.

If this former 20 year garbage man can have dreams come true, so can you. Be aware, that only being a dreamer can be a trap. You can spend a lifetime of only dreaming, and never accomplishing. I implore you to step out in faith and courage, and dare to be great. Don't be just the dreamer, be the dream chaser.

Thank you for taking the time to read a little about me. I would like to end by saying you are special and unique. You are loved and have a special gift the world needs. God loves you and showed His love by Christ dying on the cross and defeating death. God dramatically changed my life and blessed me beyond measure. He can do the same for you.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

May God bless you all,

Gabriel R. Murillo