1. Each Other 

In the world that we live in, there are struggles and always will be. Nothing will ever be completely equal and peaceful, though we try so hard and will continue to do so. But around the holidays, our country always manages to pull together as one, United, as we should be. We celebrate, raise money, donate gifts, clothes, etc., all to help out our fellow man. I personally think it's amazing that we can put aside our differences and "love thy neighbor" during these times because it just makes things more peaceful and worthwhile. It's important to be compassionate, understanding, and considerate. We can manage to do this around the holidays, so we need to remember and try to do this all year 'round. Lord knows that'll take some time, but we'll get there eventually. Just love each other.

2. Friends

Love your friends. Always. If you're anything like me, you go through moments where some things are just too much. As a result, you don't want to worry or stress out your family, so you turn to friends- your second family. There have been (many) times where I wouldn't let my family be there for me, so I would turn to my friends for love and support. My family knows this and are understanding. My mom was actually the one that brought this up to me a few weeks ago and she expressed that she was happy that I had people to turn to like that; that I have friendships so strong that it's an option. Although she was happy about it, I know she is saddened at the fact that I feel that way sometimes.

Point is, appreciate your friends. Love your friends. Tell them these things. Part of who you've become is because of your friends; past, present, and future. They're always there when you need them, through the good and bad. Along with your family, they tolerate your bullshit more than anyone else, so make them feel loved and worthy- that you're proud to be sharing a journey with them.

To my close friends, some I see everyday and some that have drifted, I love you. I consider y'all my family. You know I don't have any siblings, so you are the closest thing I have and I appreciate you guys more than you know. Some of us have had some pretty heated fights, but we always managed to come back stronger. So Shelby, T, Cam, Faith, and Dalton: I love y'all so much. Thank you for everything.

3. Family

Your family has put up with your shenanigans from day one. Or even before day one when you were kicking and doing all kinds of crazy stuff in the womb. And when you were born? Good lord. Your parents, your family, has dealt with everything that you've done your entire life. They laughed with you, disciplined you, and supported you through everything that you've done (whether it's behind the scenes or right up in everything). From close quarters or from a distance, your family has seen you grow and, more than likely, they are proud of you. They, especially your parent(s), deserve all the love you can give them because, after all, they gave you all of theirs and then some. They didn't do everything for nothing. They want you to succeed, even if they show it in odd ways.

As for my family, they've all had my back in different ways and I couldn't be more grateful (even when it seems like I'm not).

*My mom, my biggest fan and loudest cheerleader, has been there for everything that I've done: band concerts, marching band/winterguard performances, award ceremonies, banquets (even helping the Band Boosters when she could --and when she could tolerate them--), graduation, college tours, and every single move-in day. She's been my kick-in-the-ass all throughout school, ensuring that I do well. She's been my worst enemy, but most importantly, my shoulder to cry on when I'm upset or just so frustrated. She's been my *metaphorical* shrink, voice of reason, comedic relief, hero, and my best friend.

*My dad, my behind-the-scenes and occasional-audience supporter, fellow movie enthusiast, and opportunity provider. He's normally working so he can provide for my mom and I in every way possible, but always tries his best to be there for the super important moments: state championships, banquets, birthdays, graduation, college tours, even participated in move-in day this year! He's always up for a movie, and as far as I'm concerned, is MVP with this one because he got us tickets to EVERY midnight release of every. single. Twilight movie (when I was into it). Not a lot of dads would do that, especially for a midnight showing, but he did and I won't forget that- because we froze our asses off. He provided the opportunity for my trip to Europe, along with spending money (and added more when I ran out -different currencies suck-). He provides my college education so I can follow my dream (along with mom still giving me a kick in the ass so I get good grades). But more importantly, he's my hero (literally- because Veteran).

*My memee (reminder of the whole Midwest/southern term for grandma), my other best friend, my other biggest fan, gossip buddy, home away from home, voice of reason, and inspiration to go to OSU. You know how they say "like mother, like daughter"? (there's the dad thing too, but yeah) That may be true, but I've got a huge chunk of my memee in me and I always have. We were already kindred spirits and it's becoming more obvious the older I get. We never have to go out to have fun. We can just sit in the apartment, watch Law And Order: SVU, and gossip about whatever for HOURS. She's my partner in crime, and my designated "we'll do something even if it's wrong" person.

*My uncle, my designated college football shit-talker (I can't help that he picked the wrong team to support), protector against guys, STFU enthusiast, and another voice of reason. From a distance, and sometimes not from a distance, he's one of my biggest defenders in all aspects, especially when my mom and I are going at it. And at the end of the day, he supports everything I do (even if most of it is at the "wrong" school). By the way, Go Pokes Bub :)

I owe these people specifically the BIGGEST thank you and love. I wouldn't be who I am without these four. They've each pushed me to success and supported everything I've done, being the rowdiest bunch of people in a crowd. I don't normally say gushy things about or to my family, but here it is. I love y'all so much and I couldn't have done any of this without you.

4. Last but certainly not least, YOURSELF

If you don't have love for yourself, it's nearly impossible to love anyone else (normally for relationships, but same concept). There's so much negativity in the world that makes us feel bad about ourselves, and it doesn't help that a large chunk of it is personal. Everyone can say whatever they want to you, but it will only bother you if you allow it. Don't let other people knock you off your pedestal, strip you of your crown, or take your thrown. You're a queen (or king) and you need to realize that. Love yourself. ALL OF YOURSELF. You're you for a reason. If you're going through tough times, remind yourself that you're better than that. You're better than what they say. You're better than what you allow yourself to believe. You're you. Embrace it. Embrace the sass, stretch marks, cellulite, whatever. Nothing can bring you down if you don't allow it. LOVE YOURSELF. LOVE YOURSELF. LOVE YOURSELF.