About a year and a half ago I discovered this thing. This "thing" is called Button Poetry. Button Poetry is a community where videos are posted of people doing spoken word poetry. I was so intrigued by all the words spoken and how so many people could have this talent of sharing their voice with others.

I've always been drawn to writing, even as a child I used to write songs, granted, they were never good but I did try. When I learned more about this spoken word poetry I knew I wanted to do something like that. Now, I'm not one for big crowds or public speaking, so I figured writing on an online platform would be easier for me, that's when I stumbled upon The Odyssey.

It's people like Neil Hilborn, Sabrina Benaim, and Melissa Lozada-Olivia who inspired me most. They showed me that no matter what, my writing would always be an escape. They are truly my role models and I strive to write like them one day. I hope they see this and know that their poems touch so many hearts, especially amateur authors.

In my months of writing for The Odyssey, I have discovered a passion. Writing is the only way I can truly express myself and without Button Poetry that wouldn't have been possible. Now, what I write may not be "poetry" but it is still a form of expression. I'm so thankful for discovering these two platforms.

Writing for The Odyssey has brought me great friendships and great opportunities. I am so very thankful for each and every person I have met through this. All of you mean the world to me. All of you give me confidence in my writing. So, thank you. To everyone who has ever read my articles or who have helped me write one. You keep me inspired.