To Chelbe,

You know I am not someone who can come up with sappy speeches on demand, add on being super quiet and reserved. However, you know how observant I am at the same time.

You are the young advisor that has always known what to say when a problem comes up, especially when it doesn't have to do with work.

You are the smart business woman that is going somewhere big.

You are the humble woman who always reminds me to focus on the important things in life instead of stressing out.

You are the moody young adult that proves that we are all human.

You are the opinionated, headstrong friend that always tries to understand others' opinions instead of trying to prove your own point.

You probably think you haven't impacted as many lives as you have.

You made work after a long day of classes (and my second job) so much easier. You always wanted to talk and make sure my life was in check.

You said during your congratulations party to our current store assistant manager that he was unlike most people today. You told him that there are not many people like him, but there are really not many people like you.

You have such a great foundation in your faith that it has pushed me to rethink about where I want my relationship with Christ to be. You have benefitted my life in so many ways outside of just bookstore work.

You have inspired me to think better of myself, to never allow someone to treat me badly, and to stand my ground about what I believe in.

You do great things in the future.. because we "can do all things in Him who strengthens" us (Philippians 4:13). He opens doors that we didn't know needed to be open. Sometimes staying stagnant in our lives, staying away from great change is comforting to us. He has a plan for us, however.

As you move forward in your career, you will look back at your beginnings here at LTU and remember all the people you have met. You'll remember our small campus and our small store, and our close-knit beginnings.

I wish you the very best at Madonna, and I know damn well that you will have a great time there. You will embrace the new title and all of its responsibilities with your beautiful personality and smile.

Although I am "taking up the torch you are passing on", I am honored to have been taught by you and have worked with you for so long. I never wish for you to move on just for my personal improvement. I was okay being a bookseller, and putting in my hours for the four years of college! I appreciate the opportunity to move forward, as I am happy that you get to improve as well!

You will always be part of my family, and I hope to see you soon. (Winter is coming so I'll have to make you the hot chocolate with the mini marshmellows.)

Godspeed.

Love, Michelle