This is the story of Luisa Fernandez, a woman with all the odds against her. There were struggles that presented themselves from a very young age in a country on the verge of a life-altering revolution. Being a very sensitive child was a hindrance in a place where the most valued asset was brute strength. She would have to adapt and overcome all the obstacles thrown her way. Her childhood was made more difficult by a complete lack of nurturing or guidance.Luisa had to deal with being raped by her sixth grade teacher and the humiliation she felt when her mother called her a liar and she knew he was going to get away with it. At the age of twelve she had learned she could not count on either one of her parents. It was confirmation that she could only count on herself.What follow are years of doubts and self-blame, disrupted relationships and suicide attempts. Until one day when Luisa had enough and was able to pull herself together by gathering strength from somewhere deep inside to start a new life for her daughter and herself.Luisa wants this story to focus on the ability we all have to overcome the darkest storms that threaten to destroy our souls. She knows that there are many people out there that have given up because they think life is too hard. She wants to present a living example that as long as we are alive we can accomplish anything we set our minds and hearts to, no matter what life has thrown at you.Luisa wants to share the greatest joy that can be experienced, to know that who you are today is due to your perseverance and your inner strength. Those are things no one can take away from you. 3