As I enter my twenty-first year around the sun, feelings of nostalgia and excitement seem to overwhelm me. I feel as if this year, unlike most, I have so many plans and expectations for myself to fulfill.

Although the stigma that surrounds this birthday pertains back to lots of partying, I have much more in mind when it comes to celebrating.

This year, I want to continue to grow in my faith.

My friends have been so helpful when it comes to encouraging me to attend church and other youth group activities. Nonetheless, I want to take the initiative to push myself to grow in my faith along with my friends and family. I look up to all of their insight and perspectives on continuing their spiritual path with God and desire to obtain that type of relationship with Him.

This year alone, I feel like I have changed immensely as a person and truly care about my spiritual values. Therefore, I am ready more than ever to build a strong foundation with the Lord our Savior.

I desire to put my family and friends first.

I want to spend quality time with the people that I cherish most in my life. My family and friends are true lights in my life. I couldn't take on any endeavor without their support. Honestly, it is so refreshing to be surrounded by those who love and care about you as well.

That is why I plan on investing as much as I can into their lives as they have reciprocated to me.

So here is to plenty more laughs, happy tears, and smiles that I can't wait to share with my loved ones.

I want to be more grateful.

It's so important to remember how blessed I am to live the life that I do. I know that I take things for granted and am unappreciative sometimes. However, when I take a moment to reflect on all of the blessings that God has given me, I instantly become more grounded.

It's so essential to remember that there are people who don't have the same demographic and background that I do. I want to remain grateful and give back to those who need love and support the most.

Finally, I want to live life to the fullest.

As I take on this twenty-first year of life, I want to seize any and every moment that I get to travel, be silly, and love others. It's important to make the most of your young adult life and have fun doing it. I can't wait to see all that this year holds, and I hope to become even more wise as time passes.

Furthermore, I plan to make twenty-one one of the greatest years ever! Here's to all the love, laughs, and cherished memories to come. I couldn't be more excited!