New York, New York

My dream has always been to go to New York. I've always wanted to live in what is known as the capital of the world. When I see New York City in movies or tv shows, I can't help but smile at the warmth in my heart that burns.

When I initially found out the high school band was going to go to New York this spring for there trip, I was jealous. I was beyond jealous. I considered stuffing myself into someone's suitcase.

Then I found out my friend from another school was going to New York also. I got angry-jealous by that time. I mean, there I was, this little girl with a big dream that everyone else was going to reach before me, whether it was there dream or not.

Then I discovered my high school DECA was going to go, and the passionate fire in my heart ignited. I wanted to go so bad, so I immediately contacted the teacher to get more information.

I was informed that New York is expensive. Of course, I already knew that, but my family usually comes through for me. Not this time.

My mom just got out of the hospital, and we have those bills to pay. My brother has graduated college and moved back home, so that's another mouth we feed. I'm driving, trying to find work, but no one's hiring and ga prices are skyrocketing. It seemed New York was out of the question.

I was upset. I considered death because of my reckless emotional state. I was angry at God. What did I do? What did this family do to deserve these trails?

I went to talk to the DECA sponsor again. She told me they were having fundraisers to help pay for the trip, and gave me a Little Caesars' Pizza Kit sales booklet. I thought I had a chance.

I asked everyone I knew. I begged. I explained, but a lot of people just couldn't afford it. I told them they could also just sponsor me without buying, and many said they would see.

I turned in my money having sold 6 pizza kits- which is a record for me. That's when I was told devastating news; my high school DECA may not be able to go due to lack of interest.

I was crushed. I walked through the hallways in anger, frustration, and sadness. When I finally made it to my car I'd sucked up the years and just sat brooding in anger. I blamed all my emotions on a teacher I'd gotten on trouble with earlier that day and cranked up the rock music.

The fire was still there though. The teacher told me it was possible we could still go, but we need someone- anyone- to turn in their deposit. I told her I was trying, but I don't think that was good enough.

I have $37 in donations. The deposit is $350. I'm asking for charity. I'm laying my insecurities down and admitting what my parents won't-I need help.

If anyone would like to please e-mail me or Facebook me. You're not a bad person if you don't. I understand that we're all going through tough times, I'm just trying to meet my dreams.

E-mail: writermiddle@yahoo.com
Please put "New York DECA" as the subject line. (This is to weed out spam.)

And thank you. Just for even reading this and sending up a prayer or good thoughts, thanks.