There are so many people who have come in and out of my life and have inspired me to do many different things. However, there is always that one person who really pushes you to be the best version of yourself that you can possibly be.

To my role model,

Thank you for taking me under your wing and showing me how to be the best person I can be. Even though I didn't know it before, I have the potential to change things and to be a great leader. You didn't only teach me that, but you also pushed me to do those things.

I remember when I was so incapable of believing in myself, and when we first crossed paths, you probably thought I was such a mess. You took me in, though, and showed me that I could make a difference and I could make a change, even if I was only one person.

Thank you for talking me through all of my situations that I didn't know how to handle, and for letting me know that I was worth more than some of the toxic individuals I was hung up on. You showed me that it didn't matter if people didn't like me, and to stay true to myself no matter what happened in my life.

Thank you for staying up late, having life chats with me when I thought my world was falling apart. Thank you for the late night texts or reassurance and telling me that I can handle anything that is put in front of me. Sometimes you pushed me, and you made me step up when I wasn't ready yet. You challenged me to do the things I was scared to do, and you made me more confident than I could have ever imagined I'd be.

I have, however, learned that I don't want to be you. I want to be me, but I want to hold all of the qualities I see in you close to my heart. I hope to one day be someone who leads so fearlessly as you do.

Although I don't need your advice as often as I used to, I know that your wisdom and patience will always be there for me, and that means everything.

Sincerely,

A stronger version of myself