Since I was a little girl I have had so many strong women in my life, that have guided me in ways that maybe even they don't know. My aunt Meryl, is one of those women. She has been a steadfast in my mind, heart and everyday life. Growing up I always wished that when I became an adult I would become my aunt, she was stylish, confident, creative, loving, nurturing among so many other things. She was my vision of "making it". As I grew older I started to see her in many different lights which just proliferated how I already felt when I was younger. She was the bold type. The type of woman I was slowly becoming resilient and raw. Everyone has been through moments in their life that have drastically changed the person they were and I can honestly say she has never treated me any differently throughout those dark moments. She has transformed herself into different variations of superwoman who takes care of everyone around them even when she needs it the most, at times. I'm not good at telling people what they mean to me but as I've gotten older I've tried my hardest to do better in that aspect.

To my aunt: I want to start by saying thank you for being a light in my life. Thank you for always making sure you tell me you're proud of me no matter where this life has taken us. I see you for who you are which is the most amazing woman I have ever met. You're tenacity in life altering moments have blown me away. I will always have an unwavering gratitude for you and how you've unknowingly guided me and shaped me into the woman I am today. If I were to become half the woman you are I will know I made it in life. Looking back, it was never the materialistic things that made you happy, how big your house was, the job, it was always the people in it. I know I don't say this much but thank you for being the most amazing aunt ever and never shutting any of us out. I will always love you the best and be your shoulder in times of need. To this life and the next.