The Story of Kadeem

While enjoying a meal of spaghetti and meatballs, I talked with Kadeem about his life experiences. Kadeem grew up in a rough environment, but fought through and joined the Marines, and later even attended South University and Concordia for college. However, after graduating from school, he fell into a pattern of substance abuse, which ultimately led to homelessness.

He eventually entered a rehab program and from there found Bright Bridge, which changed his life forever. Because of his hard work and incredible work ethic, the program is providing him a full scholarship to attend George Stone Technical College. He is enrolled in the electricity program, which he hopes will give him the skills needed to find a job that will allow him to support his 7 kids. Kadeem’s kids live all over the nation, but he consistently keeps up with all of them and feels guilty that he hasn’t been able to give them what they deserve. His love of his kids inspires him to fight for good in his own life and to make himself a better father and human. He told me that what keeps him going every day is his belief in God and the life he needs to build for his children. When I asked for words of wisdom, Kadeem responded with, “find something to believe in,” and to, “take life for what it is, not what you want it to be." Hearing this from him was especially meaningful to me, and I'm taking his words to heart. Kadeem also advised me to find a stable place in my life before I make any life-changing decisions.

My talk with Kadeem inspired me in many ways and caused me to view my life differently. He reminded me to enjoy the moment, something we all should do more often.