Looking back on my life today, I realized how truly grateful I am for every moment. I have experienced a lot of heartbreak, pain, fear, anxiety, loneliness, sadness, rejection, and loss of friendships, as I am sure everyone has.

Sometimes I try to avoid looking back on the unpleasant moments, but today I felt regret for none of it, I felt grateful. I felt a satisfied peace and a complete lack of regret. Yeah, I have done stupid things, I have made some not so great choices, I have hurt and been hurt by people, and still, I would not change any of it.

Over the past few years, I have lived in many different places: Pennsylvania, Hawaii, Alabama, Florida, and Thailand. Each of them has their own unique memories, struggles I experienced, lessons I learned, relationships that came and went.

I won’t pretend life is easy, there has been a lot of emotions, but that never takes away from how beautiful life is. I am thankful for the places I have seen and the people I have met, each one completely unique and beautiful with their own graces and flaws. All of these experiences have made me into the woman I am.

I am stronger because of them, even though at times I feel weak. Looking back on all I have been through, I realize all that I have overcome. I made it through even the moments that were so dark it seemed impossible to go on, the moments where I was so lost and confused I did not know who I was or what to do, the moments of intense emotion and panic attacks, and the moments where I doubted everything I once so firmly believed in, I made it through all of these moments. When I look back, I have to say “damn girl, you are strong!” Sure, I didn’t feel it at the time, but I really am.

So, here’s to all the moments, the good and the bad, because they are all beautiful! Thank you, to all the experiences that made me who I am today, thank you for teaching me, for growing me, for making me laugh and making me cry. Here’s to all the places I have been!

The paradises and the dumps, because you were all beautiful and unique, and I will not forget any of you, thank you for the countless amazing memories you gave me. And here’s to all the people I have met along the way, the ones I hurt and the ones who hurt me, the friends I made and the friends that drifted away, all the people who have encouraged me and strengthened me, and pushed me to my limits, thank you. I will never be the same.

I love how unique each and every one of you are, this world is beautiful, no two places, no two people are exactly alike and that is what makes it so beautiful! Although we may be different, I appreciate those differences, this world would be a boring place without them. Thank you to everyone and every place for being themselves! Keep being you! You make this world exciting and wonderful! You certainly made my life one wild adventure.

I will remember all of you, always. You will forever have a place in my heart. Thank you!