It's finally the holiday season!
To everyone who celebrates Christmas, Kwanza, Hannukah or any other event, Happy Holidays. As these come to a close, however, we still have the final days of 2016 before the new year begins.
This year has been a series of ups and downs for me - from depression and treatment to Costa Rica and Mexico mission trips. As I look back on everything I have accomplished, I couldn't be prouder of myself. It's a difficult statement to say, but I've grown so much in my faith, my writing, my mental health, and my future plans. So as I sit here in front of my Christmas tree with a dog on my lap, I've decided to thank a few people who have got me here.
To my mom and dad - thank you for never giving up on me and for pushing me to be the best I could ever be. You guys have made my life exciting, adventurous, and full of joy and love and I could never ask for anyone better.
To my sister - thank you for loving me through everything. I know that we've always had sisterly banter but I could never imagine life without you. From hugging and crying when you came back from Asia, to laughing so hard in the car ride up to the mountains, you have made my life special.
To my best friends - thank you for being there for me at two AM when I needed someone and for letting me be your friend. I've grown closer to you guys than most others in my life and you mean the world to me. I love you so much. Never stop being yourself.
To the rest of my family - thank you for making me laugh and bonding with me since I was born. Thank you for accepting me for who I am and loving me through my faults. You have been some of my greatest supporters in my life.
To the people I worked with in Mérida, Mexico - thank you for teaching me what true love is and showing me that it has no language barrier. Thank you for teaching me to dance and accepting me as an Amiga and a part of your familia. I miss you all every day.
Finally, thank you to my Odyssey team, mission trip team, and everyone who reads my articles. You keep me going and let me write for you and that is all I could ask for. Thank you for the opportunities I have received this year and I hope I make you proud. Happy Holidays from myself to everyone reading and I know that 2017 will be a year of opportunity.