You.

You, who crept into my life at such a young age. You, who diminished my childhood, eradicated my hopes and dreams, and tore away at my innocence. You, who brought pain and loneliness everywhere you went.

Remember me? I am one of the 14.8 million Americans who battle with you constantly. That's 14.8 million lives that you have hurt, damaged, and even destroyed.

Because of you, I felt my childhood came to an end at the abrupt age of eight. Because of you, it's hard to get out of bed in the morning. The simplest tasks takes all of my willpower and effort. Because of you, my health has suffered. But because of you, I am strong.

I write this letter not to pity myself or anybody else, I write this letter to let you know that I thank you for having come into my life.

I have learned how valuable life is; I can now see how every little thing, may it simply be the wagging of a dog's tail, the laughter that comes from a child, the feeling before a rollercoaster drop, or the feeling from a really good movie, is absolutely precious.

Despite how difficult you've made my life, I have risen above it. You made me shy, lonely, and afraid of new things, so I went out and became an active drama student. You took the joy away from singing, so I went and sang and performed anyway. You wouldn't let me concentrate on school, I graduated top of my class anyway.

Your attempts at limiting me have been futile. Instead of tearing me apart from my friends and family you have only allowed us to become closer. Every-time you creep into my life, whether it's during my college years or my senile old lady years, I will rise above and I will better my life.

You might have the potential to destroy me and my happiness, but I will never let your twisted goal get to me. I am strong. You are bitter and clingy. And I will never let you get in the way of my happiness ever again.