2016 has come to an end. Of course, there have been many ups and downs in just one year, but it is crazy how much can change and how much you can grow as a person in just 365 days. You can learn so many lessons and have so many valuable life experiences. Hopefully you were able to gain wisdom from the adversities that you faced in 2016, and you carry this knowledge into your coming years. 2017 has so much potential just as any new year does. You can make 2017 whatever you want it to be. You can decide who you surround yourself with and take the chances that your heart chooses, even if they don't give you the results you initially anticipate. When you are at this place come the beginning of 2018 you want to look back at your year and be able to reflect on how much you have accomplished and achieved in just a short year.

When I think about where I was at the start of 2016 versus where I am now at the start of this year I am so happy with how much I have grown as a person. Despite all of the not-so-great moments of this year, this has been one of my favorite years thus far. I am a young adult finally finding out my future path and a whole new level of independence. Of course, being young has it rough patches, and I make decisions that I sometimes second-guess. But, those dumb decisions have given me some of the most invaluable life skills I have ever acquired. In 2016 I got to learn more about the value of friends, family and my own self worth. I've also learned a lot about hard work, ambition and achieving goals. I had so many good times, and I encountered so many important people that I will bring into 2017.

I know that 2017 is going to be another great year. I cannot even begin to imagine where I will be by the end of 2017. I will be furthering my journey into adulthood and gaining more experience and maturity. You never know what surprises and blessings the new year will bring. If you face obstacles, embrace them and do your best to stay positive. Furthermore, don't take the positive moments of 2017 for granted. Cherish the special memories you make with the people you love.