"All we see of someone at any moment is a snapshot of their life: there in riches or poverty, in joy or despair. Shapshots don't show the million decisions that led to that moment." - Richard Bach

The circumstances put you into the situation that you're in but it doesn't define who you are. It's a shame society doesn't see it that way. You don't deserve to be put into this social stigma that prohibits you from a well paying job or any other opportunities. Its a shame how the system is based off efficiency and not on an individual basis. You're not provided a chance of redemption or a chance to show you've changed.

I've come to realize how lucky I am at this time of my life.
I'm so lucky I will leave college without any loans to pay off
I'm so lucky to have grown up in a neighborhood with no violence/drugs
I'm so lucky to have many opportunities that many do not.

When you encounter someone who is in way worse shape then you, you really take things into perspective. I can't even imagine the uphill battle some people have to endure just to stay afloat. I am so thankful.