In early June 2019, I was called into my employer’s office to let me know that I was being let go due to my status as a dreamer. I walked out with tears and speechless I had just lost my only source of income. My income had suddenly stopped yet my responsibilities were the same. I still had to pay my mortgage, I still had to pay my bills and most importantly I had a toddler to raise.
That night as I sat on the table with my family for dinner I broke down. I was not sure what I was going to do. I felt helpless, lost and scared… As I was crying, I felt a small hand on my arm. I looked up and it was my son, Legacy. He looked at me and said “Mommy don’t cry. I love you”. Legacy’s words made me realize that I had to stay strong for him and could not give up.
If I could not be employed due to my “Pending” Status I was going to employ myself. After brainstorming some ideas, I decided I would start my own company and name it after my birthstone “Opal”. Opal massage was officially opened for business on June 30th, 2019. My small business was slowly but surly growing.
On March 21st, 2020 we fell into another hardship. Due to COVID-19 I was forced to shut down for an unforeseen amount of time. Again, I was reminded that I could not give up! My motherly instinct made me realize that I had to keep going. Soon after Essential oils by Opal was born.
The above image was my first draft for Opal’s Logo. This picture is now framed in my room to remind me to never give up. Sometimes our lowest points are blessings in disguise. I tell this not to brag but to inspire those who might feel helpless, lost and scared. Keep going, remember who and why you are doing it for. If you have an idea set it in motion and just go for it. One day you too will have a draft of your logo, script, sketch, business plan etc. hanging on your wall.
Thank you to my mentor and dear friend Beth. I could not have done it without you. Thank you to those that helped bring Opal to life. Thank you to the Mount Prospect community for giving Opal a home. And Lastly, thank you to all who have supported my business. I am just a massage therapist and could not have done it without you all.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Sincerely,
Gaby Perez
Opal Massage Therapy