Growing up I didn't have many friends. Whether that was because I was shy or the kids didn't like me, I'm not sure. It wasn't until I moved to Maine around the time of middle school that I started making friends. As time moved on and I went into high school the friends I used to hang out with in middle school started to do their own thing. I'm not saying I wanted to impede their direction of progress but I will say I miss their company.

Still there were a few friends that hung around more than others. These people are who I called my "Squad". Basically to be a part of the Squad you had to be a friend that has been around for a couple years and one that I liked to spend time with. As such there are quite a few people in my Squad.They are the people that have been with me since the beginning. Whether that be high school or college, they were my ride or die partners. From crazy all-nighters for a project to three in the morning chats about life, we enjoyed it all. Those were memories I'll always remember and hopefully ones they'll remember too.

Together we have faced some dark places. But we've also been able to see some astounding things. We've seen each other cry and we've seen each other laugh. We've finished goals and dreams we've fought for. We have always been there for each other no matter the struggle. I can't thank them enough for that.

The best part of being a part of my Squad is that no matter what I'll have your back. Even if we haven't talked for months and you need help or need someone to talk to I'll be there. That's what the Squad does. We support each other through the good times and the bad no matter how long it's been.

As someone that values the relationships I have, having my Squad is definitely one of the best things that I've been able to experience over the last couple years. Together I have been able to feel like I can take on the world. As a Squad member I try my best to return that to everyone in the hopes that they too will feel like they can take on the world.

So to my friends, recent and long distanced, if you ever feel like you are alone, remember that I'm cheering you on. Take on the world in a blaze of glory. In the end you'll have a crowd giving you a standing ovation.

That I promise.