There are few adults that we as teenagers feel we can relate to. However, I am lucky enough to have one that I admire, relate to and appreciate; her name is Brittany Buchanan. At the start of high school, I was fortunate enough to be introduced to an amazing Christian-based community organization called Young Life. It was there that I was made familiar with my leader, Brittany.

From the second I met her, she was enthusiastic about meeting me and getting to know me as a person. It was incredibly refreshing to feel so cared about by someone I barely knew. I was immediately drawn to her quirky and outgoing personality. As time went on, through lunch dates and sweet inviting text messages, I got to know the amazing person Brittany is. Not only does she invest her time as a Young Life Leader, but she holds a job as a nurse at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and is going back to school to gain even more credentials as a nurse practitioner. While juggling a busy life, she somehow manages to reach out to my small group and arrange get-togethers and personal days to spend with us.

What amazes me most about Brittany is her genuine care and concern for my Young Life peers and I. Her capacity for kindness is overwhelming. I know that at any time if I am facing a problem, I have someone to talk to about it. In today's hectic society, it is crucial for teens to have someone like this to turn to. Thank you, Britt, for that. I truly have a friend in you, despite our age difference.

Another thing I admire about her is her unique sense of style. You can catch Britt dressed to the tee every time you see her. With a fashion forward collection of Free People clothing, her outfits never fail to impress. Her house looks like it's straight out of a Pinterest board. Inspirational quotes scatter the walls and pops of color deck out the furniture and throw pillows. When Britt entertains guests such as my YL group, there is always a cute dessert to accompany her adorable house. Coming over is always a treat!

Britt has also been very supportive of me in everything I do. She has attended my dance shows, screaming my name from the audience. I am always reminded and praised for my dancing abilities, which I am incredibly humbled by. I feel constantly encouraged by her. Whether it's telling me to "channel my inner Beyonce" or a motivating text before my show, I know that I always have a fan!

I am so blessed to have someone in my life like Brittany. I look forward to continuing in my Young Life journey with her!

Love,

Bella