About Samuel Arcelay

The Moment That Changed Everything

In the 2nd grade, a teacher asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I cheerfully replied, “a child psychiatrist.” She laughed and told me, “You can’t.” When I asked why, she simply said, “Because you have to read a lot.” That memory stayed buried deep within me, forgotten for years. But one morning, it resurfaced, as clear as a sunny day. “If I’m so smart, Why do I clean toilets move boxes and handle garbage for a living?”

Trapped by an Unseen Fear

As if hypnotized, I found myself standing in front of my bookshelf, questioning why I was working as a janitor. Then, like a slap on the back of my head, I remembered her words. That single moment of doubt, planted in my young subconscious mind, shaped my entire life. I spent decades avoiding anything that required “reading a lot.” I dropped out of school at age 12, never attended college, and worked low-paying jobs because they felt “safe.” I worked boring low paying jobs, I became a criminal.

Inspiring Minds Through Storytelling & Education

Discover books that inspire, educate, and empower. Samuel Arcelay’s works blend knowledge and experience, offering compelling stories that foster learning, resilience, and growth. Explore narratives on overcoming challenges, personal transformation, and the power of education through storytelling, unlocking new perspectives, gaining wisdom, and embracing a journey of self-discovery.

Breaking Free from the Past

Ironically, despite fearing academics, I spent my nights in bookstores, reading about neuroscience, psychology, and personal development. I was unknowingly feeding my mind the knowledge I once feared. That forgotten childhood memory helped me realize how one negative impression shaped my life, and I decided it was time to rewrite my story.

Embracing Knowledge & Inspiring Others

I lived my life as a broken child, believing I needed to be fixed. But the truth is, I was never broken—I just had to unlearn the limitations placed on me. Today, I use my story to help others overcome their self-doubt, proving that it’s never too late to reclaim your potential. My books are a testament to the power of resilience, transformation, and lifelong learning.

A Journey of Healing, Freedom, and Purpose

Born and raised in NYC’s streets, I battled addiction, prison, and pain. With no father and a hardworking single mother, I spiraled into rebellion, institutionalized at 12. A teacher’s doubt in 2nd grade planted deep insecurities, steering me away from academics. I found comfort in labor jobs, until I confronted my past. On September 28, 1988, I broke free. Now 66, I’ve spent 36 years clean—no drugs, no alcohol, no prison. I even quit smoking cigarettes. I accomplished this with no medicine no drug or alcohol program and no support. By these standards, I could have been a neuroscientist, or a concert pianist, a rocket scientist.