Growing up in Compton, California in the 1990's wasn't easy for anyone, especially a child with a deceased mother and a part-time father. Young Joseph Rivers was left in the care of his loving grandmother who took him in and raised him as her own-implanting educational morals in his life. As Rivers grew up he became determined to take a stand, linking the importance of education in fulfilling one's dreams through adversities. However, never-ending conflicts from family, friends, school bullies, local gang members, and strangers threatened Rivers' plan to succeed as well as dreams that were trying to be achieved. But with each obstacle came new challenges allowing lessons to be learned, including the ability to cope and most of all discover the true meaning of success.