Trek to Independence
Throughout life, I have encountered innumerable judgments and countless opinions about what defines a "MAN" and his independence. I'm proud of myself that I've never paid heed to the clamor of defending what defines me, or what society deems as "masculine." Instead, I've emerged as a wholly self-made individual, shaped by my own experiences and choices,forged through life's relentless storms and waves, who has faced every hardship head-on, standing strong and resilient since the age of seven.
I've boldly crafted my own reality, rooted in my personal beliefs, rather than succumbing to the multitude of voices dictating how we should live.Today, I stand fully aligned with and proud of the person I've become, eagerly anticipating how today's experiences will shape the next version of me.
I've boldly crafted my own reality, rooted in my personal beliefs, rather than succumbing to the multitude of voices dictating how we should live.Today, I stand fully aligned with and proud of the person I've become, eagerly anticipating how today's experiences will shape the next version of me.
Nevertheless, tuning in to those clamors has afforded me a broad perspective on various mindsets and viewpoints, revealing the intricacies and imperfections that often accompany outspoken words.
Each of these careers unlocked a distinct and vast expanse growth, offering me a unique vantage point into the broader tapestry of some aspects of human world.
My initial employment experience took place in my father's shoe workshop. In the early stages, I typically assisted with minor tasks on Thursdays, which I found quite enjoyable. However, as I grew older, this turned into a routine during school breaks and gradually lost its appeal.
Father's Shoe Workshop
My second job, which I took on around age 11, was at a store specializing in chandeliers and candelabras. I mainly assisted in designing new chandeliers and delivering purchases to newlyweds. This aspect of the job brought me genuine joy, as often these couples would generously tip. At the age of 11, receiving such tips was a unique and gratifying experience, although it wasn't guaranteed every time.
The World of Chandeliers
My third job, which I started at the age of 12, involved working as a salesperson in a fabric store. It proved to be an intriguing but often demanding experience, especially when it came to cutting fabric accurately. I managed to save a portion of my earnings over a few months and used it to purchase a lovely fabric for a girl I hadn't yet met, someone I only conversed with over the phone. I was drawn to that fabric, and it was meant to be a special gift for her. She received the fabric but I never met her in life, a mysterious lady from the city of Tabriz.
CUTTING CLOTH
My fourth job, which I started at the age of 13, was at a fast-food restaurant where I did a variety of tasks, including cooking, cashier work, cleaning, and shopping. It was an enjoyable experience as I could eat all the delicious food. Although the early 5:00 am wake-up calls were far from pleasant, especially during summer when others were sleeping. However, the owner of this fast-food restaurant, who was our tenant, handed me a videotape that captured 10 years of my life, encompassing both pain and reward.
FLIPPING BURGERS
Beyond the realm of social responsibility and the quest for life's lessons, there were moments sprinkled throughout that left an indelible mark of joy. One of those activities was yearly house cleaning before Iranian new year that always brought joy. All the family members would get together and we bring everything out of all corners of our house, from any hidden place and began deep cleaning, throw out unneeded stuff or give a way what could be used. I mainly would join with carpet washing as it involved water and sometimes cleaning windows, that I didn’t enjoy much.
Glimpses of Joy
Another vivid memory involves rising at the crack of dawn, between 5 and 6 am, while darkness still enveloped the world. I would join the queue, standing in anticipation to purchase milk upon its delivery. This simple act of waiting for milk opens a window into the complex social fabric of my motherland during those times, revealing layers of stories and observations from an era marked by its unique challenges.
Morning Rituals
An almost daily ritual involved venturing out each evening to purchase fresh bread for dinner, a task that often meant standing in lengthy queues for 30 minutes or more. This quiet, stationary wait in line offered its own unique sociological insights—a moment of communal stillness in pursuit of bread. Acknowledging my tendency to indulge in half of the bread on my journey home, much to my father's chagrin, I made it a habit to buy an extra loaf with my own money. This small act of independence allowed me to savor the fruits of my patience, enhancing the simple pleasure of waiting for freshly baked bread.
Daily Fresh Bread
Another annual tradition that evoked a mix of emotions was the yearly repainting of our four-story house, an endeavor I embarked on alongside my father. At times, the act of painting the walls brought me joy, a tangible expression of renewal and care for our home. However, painting the ceilings was a different story, as it strained my neck from constantly looking upwards, transforming the task into a source of discomfort. Moreover, the obligatory nature of this task sometimes diminished the pleasure derived from the work, highlighting the nuanced experiences of maintaining our family home.
Brush Strokes of Tradition
My next job, which I took on around the age of 14, coincided with my studies in computer technology at a technical college, and I was completely immersed in the subject. At this point, I worked at a store near my home where I sold video tapes, musical tapes, provided computer repair and assembly services, and sold computer accessories. I found this work enjoyable, particularly because there was a ladies' school nearby, and many of the students would come to hang out in my store after school.
Tech Savvy Ventures
In addition to my main jobs, I was also engaged in minor repair work on the side. During those days, many computer parts were smuggled into the country illegally from Dubai through waterways. Sometimes, when faced with guards, those responsible for the smuggling would toss the parts into the water and later retrieve them.
I would often bring these parts, mainly monitors, home for cleaning the salt from the components and mainboard, and for minimal internal maintenance, I enjoyed working with electronics and building kits. However, my involvement in this endeavor didn't last long, as I had a few close calls with electrical shocks and even risked setting my house on fire a couple of times.
I would often bring these parts, mainly monitors, home for cleaning the salt from the components and mainboard, and for minimal internal maintenance, I enjoyed working with electronics and building kits. However, my involvement in this endeavor didn't last long, as I had a few close calls with electrical shocks and even risked setting my house on fire a couple of times.
Smuggling Challenges
For my next job, I made the decision to venture into entrepreneurship and opened my own store. I rented a small shop where I sold computers and computer accessories. However, this venture was short-lived. One day, a company director came into my store looking to purchase an audio kit, and he offered me a job at his company, which I accepted.
A Brief Stint in Retail
For my seventh job, I embraced the opportunity and became the head of the technical department in that company. My responsibilities ranged from assembling computers, installing software, conducting diagnostics, to delivering and setting up the systems in customers' homes. Additionally, I handled various tasks such as bank transactions, purchasing supplies, and more. I worked there for approximately over a year and half.
Leading the Tech Frontier
Around same time , I was involved in the sale of movies and musical CDs that had been illicitly imported into Iran. Such activities were considered illegal in Iran during those times.
Underground Entertainment
Once again, I set my sights on establishing my own company. I resigned from my job, rented an office, and founded my own business. I began sourcing components from major players, assembling computers, and selling them directly to customers. My competitive edge lay in offering lower prices than my competitors, thanks to minimal overhead expenses – just myself and a small rent to cover.
Entrepreneurship
I knew this person who used to supply me with the latest cell phone models. One day, he called me with news of a new Samsung model for me. When I went to purchase it, he mentioned that he had rented a spacious Internet café and was seeking a partner. I expressed my interest, and that same night, we went to check out the place. The location was ideal, and it was large enough for me to run my own business alongside it. This opportunity led to my ninth job, where I not only sold computers but also added a coffee shop and internet caffe to the operation.
Frappuccinos
My next job took a sharp turn for the worse , leaving me jobless and burdened with debt. A few weeks after the downfall of my business, A former client contacted me because he needed help with a computer issue involving a graphical glitch. When he heard about my recent struggles, he offered me a job at his well-known company in the oil and petrochemicals industry. During the day I worked as a janitor, offering tea and coffee to staff.
A Tale of Redemption
And working as a security guard during night shifts at the same company. It was undoubtedly a significant internal transition, going from the top to the bottom of the hierarchy.
Night Shift Security
After few months of working in the oil company, I received an unexpected offer. Knowing my proficiency with computers, they inquired if I would be interested in a new role they were creating for two major projects. This position involved automating the warehouse operations. Without hesitation, I enthusiastically accepted the opportunity. Remarkably, around the beginning of the age of 18, I became the head of this newly formed department and was given the title of "Control Material of the Project." And, I headed toward deserts of my motherland, full of unique experiences.
Journey Into The Desert
Next, I dared to seize my dream of owning a traditional Iranian restaurant in Ukraine with the help of a savior angel – none other than my sister. The journey from the desert sands and the corridors of an oil company to the vibrant streets of Ukraine is a saga brimming with tales and turning points. Perhaps, one day, you'll be privy to this odyssey of dreams and determination.
Restaurant Dreams
Fleeing the clutches of the Ukrainian mafia in Ukraine - a tale too enthralling to be kept secret - I sought sanctuary under the wing of a guardian angel. This benevolent protector paved the way for me to embrace the role of a BBQ cook at a restaurant nestled in a resort town. As the appointed BBQ maestro, I embarked on a culinary journey, crafting delectable shashlik on the sandy shores for the restaurant's patrons.
BBQ Bliss
Yet, my chapter with shashlik closed unexpectedly, marred by a profound sense of disrespect I could no longer bear. It was at this crossroads that fate presented me with a beacon: an advertisement seeking a "shawarma seller." Ignorant of the art of shawarma making, curiosity led me to explore this opportunity.
Following a brief period of training, I found myself selling shawarma along the beachfront. This venture not only offered me shelter but also embraced me into their fold as a valued member of the team.
Following a brief period of training, I found myself selling shawarma along the beachfront. This venture not only offered me shelter but also embraced me into their fold as a valued member of the team.
Culinary Evolution
Just as I was convinced my Ukrainian saga had drawn to a close, a serendipitous meeting on my flight back to Iran rewrote my destiny. Before long, I was drawn back to Ukraine, lured by the prospect of a promising partnership. Yet, this new venture unfolded into yet another chapter of challenges and hardships in the realm of Ukrainian business.
Ukrainian Saga
Motivated by a deep-seated wish to contribute positively to my motherland from a distance, my path veered unexpectedly towards activism. Before I fully grasped the extent of my involvement, I found myself at the helm, coordinating the efforts of underground civil society groups and student activists back home. This part of my journey is yet another tale, ripe for exploration when the time is right.
Unforeseen Activism
In the midst of my activism odyssey, there came a day when I transitioned into the role of a TV anchor, delivering news to my motherland and spearheading various programs alongside other passionate individuals. None of us boasted professional backgrounds in broadcasting, yet we dedicated ourselves tirelessly, around the clock, to ensure the TV station's progress. This chapter proved to be an incredible journey, replete with invaluable lessons and insights into the essence of human nature.
A Journey in Broadcasting
Amidst my commitments to TV broadcasting, I continued to steer my online ventures with the support of some exceptionally kind-hearted individuals. My digital endeavor had flourished, expanding into numerous online groups with a collective membership surpassing 100,000, a reputable news agency website, among other initiatives. Essentially, I pursued every avenue available to me, embracing each opportunity to make a difference.
Digital Expansion
Destiny, cloaked in mystery and sudden shifts, guided me to the City of Angels. From there, my journey took an unforeseen detour, placing me behind the drive-through window of a McDonald's in Houston, Texas. This chapter, however, was marked by its brevity, hinting at the transient nature of stops along the path of a much grander voyage.
A Brief Stop in Texas
From the service window of McDonald's, my path veered unexpectedly towards the Igloo factory in Texas, a name that resonated with warmth from my childhood memories. Igloo, the brand that kept our fruits fresh and drinks chilled during those sun-drenched summer picnics with family and friends, now saw me at the helm of its machinery. From dawn till dusk, I stood, guiding the gears of production in a relentless pursuit of excellence.
From McDonald's to Igloo
Amid the rigorous twelve-hour shifts on my feet at Igloo, a period ripe with self-exploration, I stood on the precipice of a decision that harbored the potential to alter my life's course dramatically - a narrative I reserve for my book. In an unexpected turn, I found myself embraced by one of the premier universities back in City of Angels. There, I joined forces with a cadre of extraordinary librarians, all united in their mission to curate and preserve knowledge for future generations. This transition marked not just a change in occupation but a significant leap towards contributing to a legacy of learning and enlightenment.
From Igloo to Academia
In the land of stars and dreams, I found myself facing a challenge: how to make the most of my car and weekend free time in the bustling City of Angels. With no family to tie me down, I decided to embark on a thrilling adventure as an Uber driver.
Each ride brought its own unique story, from late-night revelers with tales of their Hollywood escapades to weary travelers seeking sanctuary after long flights. But let's not forget the occasional oddball or two who made the journey unforgettable, whether through quirky conversations or challenging encounters with inebriated passengers.
Of course, being an Uber driver wasn't all glitz and glamour. The toll it took on my poor spine after hours of driving into the early hours of the morning. Despite the challenges, the thrill of the ride kept me going. With each weekend shift, I not only earned some extra cash but also gained a newfound appreciation for the diversity and energy of the City of Angels.
Each ride brought its own unique story, from late-night revelers with tales of their Hollywood escapades to weary travelers seeking sanctuary after long flights. But let's not forget the occasional oddball or two who made the journey unforgettable, whether through quirky conversations or challenging encounters with inebriated passengers.
Of course, being an Uber driver wasn't all glitz and glamour. The toll it took on my poor spine after hours of driving into the early hours of the morning. Despite the challenges, the thrill of the ride kept me going. With each weekend shift, I not only earned some extra cash but also gained a newfound appreciation for the diversity and energy of the City of Angels.
Uber Driver in the City of Angels
From the hallowed halls of a library brimming with tomes, my journey took yet another remarkable turn as I found myself collaborating with one of the most esteemed nonprofit organizations globally. Side by side with thousands of luminaries, all steadfast in their belief in goodness and dedicated to making a tangible difference in the world and the lives of individuals, I became part of a collective force for change. For over eight years, I toiled alongside these compassionate souls, my commitment unwavering until I was touched by dead in 2020.
From Libraries to Global Impact
Embarking on what some may deem a voyage of accomplishments, my path has seen me don various other hats: salesperson, marketer, customer support representative, internet provider, delivery , Helpdesk and some other roles that slip my mind. Each step has been an adventure, a delightful exploration of the unpredictable.
Multifaceted Odyssey
And at the end of this journey, when Ali was touched by death, he gazed upon the entirety of his life. In that moment, he was shown a cherished image from his childhood—a dream that once captivated his heart. It was the image of his childhood around age of 7~8 when he was mesmerized by the sound of a piano, feeling like a birth when one in his family would sing, and his soul dancing to the enchantment of a flute or Santoor. A dream that got lost in the corridors of his life journey.
Now, his body, exhausted and worn from life's long arduous journey, no longer allowed him to sit and play any instrument. His breath, a faint echo of a once-strong wind, couldn't blow through a flute or lift his voice to sing song, silenced for 37 years.
Now, his body, exhausted and worn from life's long arduous journey, no longer allowed him to sit and play any instrument. His breath, a faint echo of a once-strong wind, couldn't blow through a flute or lift his voice to sing song, silenced for 37 years.
In the tapestry of existence, every corner of this earthly realm unveils an adventure awaiting discovery. Amidst its ebbs and flows, each encounter becomes a fresh perspective, revealing the vast panorama of what we cherish as "LIFE."
