Alex had just graduated from high school. His grades were so good, everyone in the family was proud of him.
On many occasions, his dad would boast about Alex. He seized every little opportunity to tell others about how impressive Alex was. He was the typical proud father.
Alex had three older siblings. His eldest two brothers had already graduated college and were working decent jobs. His sister, who's the third, was in her final year in college.
It was Christmas and as usual, everyone came home. While the entire family was having dinner, it was obvious everyone wanted to know what college Alex would go for and what course. His father decided to break the ice.
"So Alex, which school would you like to attend?" His father asked.
Alex took a deep breath like he was about to drop a huge answer..
"Uhmm, I'm not going for any. I don't want to go to college" Alex said.
Everyone was in utter shock. The room was quiet for about a minute. It was as if they were trying to process what Alex just said.
"What do you mean by that? Where is this coming from, Alex?" his father asked.
He was visibly upset at this point.
"Dad, everyone, I think school is a waste of my time. I don't fancy going to school. I want to start a business of my own." Alex said.
"This is a huge decision Alex. It would impact your life so much. Reconsider" Jonah, his eldest brother said.
"I've thought about it a lot. I want to own a business through which I would impact the world. School would be a big distraction for me" Alex said.
"Not in my house! Your brothers went to school and are doing well for themselves, your sister is in school, you will go to school" Clark, his father replied.
Things took a downward turn from that moment. Alex refused to go back on his decision. It resulted in a big issue with his father. Alex eventually had to leave the house to stay with a friend as a result. His siblings tried talking to him but Alex was already determined to stick to his decision.
Alex gathered some money, took some loans and launched his business. He was taking an unusual path. One his family didn't support, but he was determined to prove them wrong.
He started a tech company. It wasn't easy on him at first. He spent the majority of his time attending to his business. He gave everything to the business. He had poor sleep time because he was always up, doing one thing or another related to his business.
Alex kept on giving his all until one day, everything clicked for him. He closed a deal worth millions with a client. From that deal, he got several other deals worth much more. His company became famous because of how good it was.
A year later, Alex was rich. Way richer than anyone in his family. He had worked so hard and he was enjoying the result of his hard work. One day, he heard that his father had been hospitalized. Unfortunately, they weren't on speaking terms. However, Alex couldn't look away because it was his father. The money needed for his father's treatment was in millions. The money was so huge, none of the members of the family could afford it.
Alex needed to step in otherwise he would lose his father, who was already in a critical state. Alex decided to intervene. He paid the bills, his surgery and his treatment were successful.
Alex had been avoiding facing his dad for a long time, but when he heard that his father was finally awake, he went to visit him.
"Dad. How are you feeling" Alex asked as he walked into the hospital room.
"I feel better, my son. I was told you were the one that paid for my treatment. I'm so sorry. I'm sorry about everything that happened. I'm sorry I pushed you out. I hope you can forgive me" his father said as tears flowed from his eyes.
"It's okay dad. I forgive you. What you did helped me because it motivated me to work hard to succeed. I'm in a better place now" Alex replied.
'I have heard a lot about your business. You chose a different road from your siblings and it worked out well for you. I am so proud of you. You've always been an outlier" his father said.
They were now on good terms. The family was united, and Alex helped his siblings secure better jobs.