In “An Unexpected Outcome,” “Teresa” recalls her early years struggling to survive while homeless with a drug-addicted mother. I'm glad that Teen Ink prints articles like this because I believe it's good to expose readers to the not-so-finer truths of life. This prepares us for the real world and the hurdles and challenges we may face.

This piece does have a happy ending, despite its somber beginning. It reminds me of a movie since it begins with the main character in a bad situation where she must overcome struggles, but in the end her problems are solved (Teresa goes to live with her grandmother) with a bright future ahead. This is the kind of story that moves any audience, especially me.

Hopefully your magazine will continue to receive and print incredibly touching articles like “An Unexpected Outcome.” They keep me grounded and inspired to help others who are less fortunate.