On August 18th, 2012, the last day of Ramadan, my football coach wanted the team to understand a great life lesson by ascending to the summit of the 2,572-foot Mt. Tamalpais in 98* degree heat. He believed that reaching the summit would provide a team bonding experience that would help us understand all the determination it takes to reach the top. He recommended bringing water; but because I was fasting, I couldn’t drink or eat anything until sunset.

At some point along my ascent, I contemplated breaking my fast and giving in, but I couldn’t and wouldn’t. At times, my teammates questioned me. “Nasser, you are crazy, drink some water!” Determined, I responded, “No, I can do this”. During breaks, my teammates drank water while I could only pour water on my head to keep myself cool. Throughout the ascent, I repeated to myself with a dry mouth, “You WILL reach the top.” A quarter mile from the summit, my coach told us to sprint to the top. I closed my eyes and with all my remaining energy, I pushed. When I reopened my eyes, I saw the entire Bay Area in front of me. Coach asked me how I felt; I responded, “I have never been better.”

That experience captures my essence: when facing physical, emotional and spiritual challenges, I respond with a determination to overcome. Attending a college prep high school on scholarship, I am reminded daily of my blessings and challenges. I have lived most of my life without a father. He was barely a part of my family when I was little; I haven’t seen him for six years. He has never provided guidance or support; but with perseverance and support from others, I am paving a positive path. My father’s absence has affected my family both emotionally and financially. My mother immigrated to America in 1992 from Syria. When my father abandoned us without child support, my mother struggled to keep our family financially stable. Her efforts to be a mom and dad all at once are as admirable as amazing, but sometimes she can’t be both.

I have persevered through struggles, just as I did on Mt. Tamalpais — nothing stops me. My coach asked me on the way, “Nasser, are you sure you want to continue?” I confidently responded, “Of course.” My determination and confidence allow me to push through obstacles. Yet, I couldn’t have reached the top of the mountain without support. My friends and family have formed one big father figure to whom I can go for guidance and support. My brother, mother, two amazing uncles, counselors, coaches, teachers, mentors, and friends have stepped in to assist me when I needed their advice. I know when to push myself; I also have the wisdom to ask for help and support. Being a Muslim attending a Catholic school, I have become more open to religious diversity and have strengthened my own faith. My dedication to Islam guided me up that mountain and will help me reach the summit of my life. I do my best to pray five times a day, and every Ramadan I fast all thirty days. My faith defines and inspires me in my morals, character, confidence, and compassion.

I reached Mt. Tamalpais’ apex lacking water or food; accordingly I will reach the top of my journey without material wealth or a father. With determination, friends, family, and faith, I will attend and graduate college, always mindful of the power of community and faith.