Dasani (no not the water bottle)

Recently we read a 5 part series on the NY Times, which was centered around the life of Dasani, a young girl living through a rough life in New York. She's a member of a large homeless family, that suffers from generational poverty. Although they are able to live in shelters, that does not just automatically they are okay. Living in a family with 7 other siblings, and 2 parents who are constantly on and off addicted to drugs. After reading this story, I feel....well.... kind of disturbed about the variations of life. Coming from a middle class family, its easy to take things for granted, and constantly expect more when looking at the glamorous life style of celebrities, athletes, and wealthy business owners. However, these things we want are larger paychecks, bigger TVs, faster cars, and even bigger homes than the ones we already have. But these children grow up with different ideas. They want parents that aren't addicted to drugs, ones that are constantly there for them, and being able to have enough food and clothes to make it through the year comfortably. Many of us no doubt feel selfish, having what they want, and only asking for more.

After reading this piece, I'm interested to find out what has happened to Dasani and her family in the time since this was published. Are they still in Harlem? Are both parents still clean? Are they at least making the best of what they have? Although we may all say we don't want people to be homeless, it's more sincere when we learn a persons background first.

I couldn't help but notice some similarities between Dasani's life, and my life, as well as the lives of others kids my age. Dasani is portrayed as the person who always wants to do the best she can, and is disappointed in herself when she can't.  I feel the same way in many situations, when it comes to academics and athletics.

If i could say something to Dasani, it would be to keep going strong. Dasani is a gifted athlete, and smart girl. If she can keep working hard over the next several years, her dream of going to college will no doubt be achieved. I mean scholarships are always available to people who prove themselves. And from there, the comfortable life she deserves.