I passed through a time where I suffered greatly from the consequences of my choices. I had become very unhappy and had lost hope. I had little confidence and was unsure of where to go or what to do to make the changes I knew I had to make.

I began by making an appointment with my bishop. We discussed working at Deseret Industries and I accepted the opportunity. At first, DI was just a job, but as I started working more, I started learning more.

At Deseret Industries I learned what it means to work on a team and how to be a great team member. I began to learn how to work toward goals—goals that had once seemed impossible to achieve. I learned that I did not have to reach those goals alone, but that I was part of a team. I realized that I can work hard, but that caring about others and helping others with the work will get the job done faster and easier.

My work at Deseret Industries allowed me to gain confidence in myself once more. I know now that I am capable and can achieve all I put my mind to accomplish. My experience at DI taught me to be grateful for what I have, and I learned to smile and be happy.

I would like to give a special thanks to my job coach and mentors. My job coach was so understanding while gently pushing me to reach my full potential. She worked with my mentor to find ways that would motivate me to do my best and to realize just how valuable I truly am.