Joel Rayon Paniagua
Opportunity
Joel was only a teenager when he immigrated to Florida from Veracruz, Mexico seeking a better life for himself and his family. He worked tirelessly within the construction industry, giving every last bit of himself so he could send money home to his family. Joel's cousin explained why so many people like Joel choose such a hard life in the United States: "in our country there was a lot of crime, violence and death ... and we expect it should be more peaceful here." Joel's opportunity for a better life vanished in the wake of our nation's largest mass shooting in history.
In honor of Joel, today I'm embracing the opportunities within my life, many of which have just been given to me by accident of birthplace. We have so much potential to make this world a better place if we work hard and chase our passions. Embrace every opportunity because life is short and unpredictable and you might not get another chance.
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