I choose abstinence

For a young, 18-year-old girl like myself living in a rural area means facing a lot of problems. We live in poverty so it’s no surprise that everyone is doing what they can to get out – no matter what it takes.

That’s one of the reasons that young men and women turn to gang life looking for any means to support their families. Young girls turn to sugar-daddies exchanging unprotected sex for food, shelter.

I know we’re living under pretty tough conditions, I experience them every day. That’s why I’ve decided to everything in my power to make a success out of my life.

It's not easy given the circumstances my family and I are in but I know some people who have it worse than us but they’re not giving up.

I choose to put my education first. It’s my key to building a decent future for myself and my family. I will continue to abstain from sex so I’m not forced to deal with unplanned consequences that I’m not ready for. I will be responsible for my actions.

And by doing these things; working hard every day to achieve my goals and grabbing the opportunities I come across with both hands, I give myself a chance at a better life. Challenges shouldn’t keep us from achieving our goals but should drive us towards them.

Growing up poor doesn’t mean you need to stay like that. You can break the cycle of poverty by working at your studies, getting a job and following your dreams one step at a time. Some of the biggest winners came from poor beginnings.

What are the things that stand in front of your reaching your goals? This reader has mentioned some – but what is the biggest obstacle standing between you and the life you want to lead?