Izabella Gonzalez finds inspiration in someone who uplifts her everyday

By Jareli Rios

Gonzalez found Jesus Christ

Rialto High School junior Izabella Gonzalez has been inspired by a man who has loved her since the day she was formed in her mother’s womb: Jesus Christ.

In Gonzalez’s freshman year, she had the opportunity to switch into different classes that might be supportive for her. However, she denied the offer because she wanted to challenge herself and stay in regular classes.

Gonzalez specifically remembers struggling in her math class and feeling discouraged because everyone else seemed smarter than she was. She felt that her IEP meant she couldn’t achieve her goals and that she was different from her peers. An IEP means she needs an extra hand in some classes. 

She remembers crying and being overwhelmed because she was so scared of failing and thought she was incapable of learning. However, she learned to embrace her challenges and never give up. 

Gonzalez realized that despite people’s differences, everyone is unique.

She encountered Jesus in that same year and let Him take control of her life. She claims that Jesus had washed her worries away. 

Turning to Jesus changed her mindset and her positivity, boosting her strength to keep trying even when times got rough.

Later on in her junior year of high school, she joined the Solid Rock Christian Club at Rialto High School. She found a community where she could practice her faith, encourage others, and spread kindness. She enjoys making people feel loved and cared for, no matter who they are. 

“Jesus has inspired me because He teaches kindness, compassion, and how to care for others.” Gonzalez shares. “His love reminds me that we are always valued, and that even small acts of kindness can mean so much to someone.”

The place where she once felt overwhelmed by her IEP became the place where she found her voice and faith.

Gonzalez realized that her struggles were her greatest strength; they gave her the empathy to reach people who felt "different" just like she did. 

By letting Jesus take the wheel, Gonzalez transformed her high school experience from a battle of grades into a journey of faith, proving that a different way of learning is simply a different way of shining.

Gonzalez has felt confident ever since she accepted Jesus in her heart. She shares her faith with others and uplifts them with a kind word.