Daniel Apodaca

“My mom had me when she was really young. My dad was in his 20s while she was still in high school. They didn’t get married until after I was born. From what I hear about the memories, it wasn’t the greatest marriage, there was a lot of stuff going on. It was sad to see that my parents weren’t in love anymore. I tried my best to understand the situation growing up, but the thing is it doesn’t matter how many times you ask them, or ask anybody else, you’re never going to get the real story. When I was younger my dad was a big pot smoker, and I know that sounds really bad, but that was the one thing that broke up my family. Looking back on it, I now think that it has made me a better person. Having to deal with such dramatic and stressful things as a kid, only makes you more ready for life as you grow up. I remember the one moment when I realized that my dad did want to be my dad, he did want to be in my life. He started crying in front of me after my mom had threatened to take us out of his life. He told me he really wanted to get his life together, and he did. After that, we grew closer and I was able to ask him questions and he would answer them openly and honestly. I can now say that my dad has taught my how to overcome struggles and move on and create a good life.”