My hero is Benjamin Luke. I believe a quote by Carl Jung can start to open your eyes to how Ben has changed me: “The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.”

Gradually, I had always hung around the wrong guys which meant being involved in situations where drugs and alcohol were everywhere; I was attracted, and addicted, these guys with destructive lifestyles. Then suddenly, I found myself in a relationship of mental abuse. Why graduate, get a job, or do anything with my life? I would just fail at everything I do. My thoughts aren’t appreciated, I’m not a person, I’m a woman; I’m just his object.

 When I met Ben, and light was shed on his love for me, I realized there is more to life than looking cool with a “bad” boy. Not only did I yearn to graduate high school, I wanted to make something of myself. I no longer would settle for causing trouble. Ben saved my future; he gave me a new outlook on myself. I’m inspired to go to school everyday, make the best of everyday, and to labor as I invest in my future. My dramatic transformation because of his influential words happened gradually, then suddenly.

 As I step forward into my present thinking, I want to show you the extent of my transformation. Knowing from where I started, I can tell you, now, my goals will never end. I’ll always reach for the sky and never give up. As of May 2008 I will graduate from high school an entire year early. Only because Ben had faith in me, encouraged me, and believed in me. Online classes made it possible for this early-graduation, and the ever-steady support from Benjamin. My bright future lay ahead of me; I have my colleges lined out, where I’ll go and when.

I may have my future outlined, and I may have confidence now, but things will get tough and money is already tight. With Ben, I had his love in the past, his love in the present, and I know I will have his love in the future to come. Not only has he gradually inspired me to be who I am, but he supports me in who I’ve become.

 Ben deserves all the praise in the world. He has made me a caring, loving, giving person. Because of him, I support children financially in Haiti, I give friends advice when they need it, and I can pursue my dream. I will be a Graphic Artist; someday I’ll be the designer of your child’s birthday card or perhaps I’ll design your wedding invitations for your special day. I want to glorify you, and brighten your day with my artwork and compassion. Benjamin has made me who I am

 Please make an investment in my future, and you have my word I’ll never let you down…just as he has never failed me.