It all started in June of last year when I was asked to be a child-care receptionist for a small yoga studio in my hometown. I walked into the interview with absolute zero knowledge of any form of yoga. Not knowing the hours, or any details about the job, I accepted the offer that would soon change my life as I knew it. What began as a part-time job grew into much more.

So to my yoga community:

You helped me find my place at a time where not much was known. As a senior in high school, I found myself struggling as I started my journey to find my next step in life. I didn’t know where I would be in a year or who I would be living with, but I knew that through yoga, I had somewhere I always belonged. I had a home base to turn to. A mat, a teacher, and love was all I needed. Whether a talk between classes, or wisdom taught through a yin class, I had somewhere.

You helped me find purpose. In the great abyss of life, I often found myself without a purpose, a reason. My job has been more than a titled position, but a way of living. It opened up doors I never knew existed, and it is because of you.

You taught me about the better side of life...of how to go into a not-so-nice world, but find the good in every situation. You have pushed me to be the best and healthiest version of myself. You have never given up on me, offering endless words of encouragement and love.

Thank you. Thank you for being that listener after a hard day at school. Thank you for all of your wisdom, stories, and hugs. But most of all, thank you for being the kind souls that you are. Each and everyone of you has touched my life in ways you cannot imagine.

When I started the job, I didn’t just join a studio. I joined a family. I gained more brothers and sisters that I could ever have imagined. And for that, I am so grateful.

With a full heart, Namaste.