The Simple Past Tense

11

Maria the successful entrepreneur


I used to have a lot of worries about my bills. Every month, it seemed like there were too many, and often, I didn’t have enough money to pay for all of them. It made me feel really stuck. I dreamed of having a better life, one where I didn’t have to stress about money all the time. So, I made a big decision: I would start my own business. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I felt it was the only way to change my situation.

Starting my business was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. There were many days and nights when I was so tired from all the work, I thought about just giving up. But something inside me wouldn’t let me stop. I kept pushing myself, working as hard as I could, even when things seemed really tough and progress was slow.

In the beginning, my business was tiny. Hardly anyone knew it existed, and getting customers was a big challenge. I worked day and night, trying different things to get my business noticed. It was slow going, but I didn’t let myself get discouraged. I kept at it, believing in my dream.

Welcome to Simple Past

Slowly, things started to change. More people began to buy what I was selling. It wasn’t overnight, but my business began to grow. Each new customer felt like a victory, and with every sale, I grew more confident.

Now, looking back, I’m running a successful business that makes good money. It’s amazing to see how far I’ve come. I feel very happy and proud of what I’ve achieved. This journey taught me a lot. The most important lesson was that if you keep trying and never give up, you can really change your life. My story is proof that hard work and dedication can turn dreams into reality.

I share my story hoping it might inspire someone out there who is facing their own challenges. It’s easy to feel like giving up when things get hard, but it’s important to keep going. Your efforts can make a big difference in your life. Believe in yourself and your ability to change your situation. Hard work really does pay off in the end.


Welcome to your Journey to Success: A True/False Quiz

1. The writer was always confident about her financial situation.

2. Starting the business was an easy task for the writer.

3. There were moments when the writer felt like giving up.

4. The writer's business was well-known from the beginning.

5. Getting customers was initially a big challenge for the business.

6. The writer never tried different strategies to improve their business.

7. The business saw immediate success and growth.

8. Each new customer made the writer more confident.

9. The writer regrets starting her own business.

10. The writer believes hard work and dedication are key to changing one’s life.

11. The story is shared with the hope of discouraging others from starting their own business.

12. The writer’s business is still struggling to make good money.

13. The writer feels happy and proud of her achievements.

14. One of the lessons learned is to give up when things get tough.

15. The writer’s story is intended to inspire others facing challenges.

Last Semester


Last semester marked a turning point in my life. I looked at my grades and realized something had to change. I wasn’t achieving what I knew I was capable of, and deep down, I wanted to make myself and everyone around me proud. So, I made a promise to myself: I would improve my academic performance, no matter what it took.

The first step was reorganizing my priorities. I had to accept that if I wanted different results, I needed to change my approach. This meant cutting back on time spent with friends and dedicating myself more fully to my studies. Every evening, instead of chatting or going out, I found myself at my desk, surrounded by books and notes. It was a lonely but necessary sacrifice.

I also changed how I interacted with my education. Instead of passively attending classes, I started actively engaging with the material. I asked questions, participated in discussions, and sought out extra resources. When I didn’t understand a concept, I didn’t hesitate to ask for help. My teachers noticed my effort and were more than willing to provide the support I needed, whether it was extra materials, advice, or just encouragement.

Welcome to Simple Past

The challenge wasn’t just academic; it was also personal. There were moments of doubt and frustration, times when I wondered if all this effort was worth it. The fear of failure loomed large, but so did my determination not to let it define me. I learned to celebrate small victories, like understanding a difficult topic or doing well on a quiz. These moments kept me motivated.

When exam season arrived, the pressure was intense. I revised everything I had learned, going over notes and textbooks, and practicing past papers. Waiting for the results was nerve-wracking, but when they finally came, the relief and joy were indescribable. I had not only passed but improved my grades significantly. The sense of achievement was unlike anything I had felt before.

This journey taught me more than just academic lessons. I learned about the power of perseverance, the importance of asking for help, and the value of hard work. It showed me that I could overcome challenges and achieve my goals with dedication. This semester didn’t just improve my grades; it changed my approach to learning and life. It was a period of growth, both intellectually and personally, and I emerged from it stronger, more confident, and ready to face future challenges.

Retiring in the USA


Back in Italy, my life was deeply intertwined with the rich tapestry of traditions that define the country. I reveled in the exquisite food, the vibrant festivals, and the unique way of life that only Italy can offer. Those were the days filled with a sense of belonging and an appreciation for the deep-rooted cultural heritage that surrounded me.

However, life has a way of ushering in change, and mine led me across the ocean to the USA. Here, I embarked on a new chapter, one marked by retirement and the freedom it brings. Retirement has opened up a world of possibilities, allowing me to indulge in hobbies I never had the time for and to forge new friendships that have enriched my life in unexpected ways.

While I occasionally find myself yearning for the familiar comforts of Italy, I’ve grown to find immense joy in my life here in the USA. The tranquility and freedom of my retirement years have given me the opportunity to explore new horizons, delve into different cultures, and experience the diverse mosaic of life in America.

Welcome to Simple Past

My days are now filled with activities that bring me happiness, from discovering new walking trails to attending cultural events that broaden my perspective. Each new experience adds a layer to my understanding and appreciation of the world, bridging the gap between my past in Italy and my present in the USA.

Though my life has undergone significant changes, I’ve learned to find joy in both the memories of my past and the experiences of my present. Italy will always hold a special place in my heart, but I’ve come to realize that happiness is not confined to a single place or time. It’s woven through the tapestry of experiences, old and new, that shape our lives. As I continue to explore and enjoy the peace and freedom of my retirement, I’m grateful for the journey that has brought me here and the adventures that still lie ahead.

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