It's hard to see the good when there is so much destruction in this world. Seems like no matter the time of day it is, I turn on my television and there is evil. It's sad to say, but even my hometown (East Sacramento) used to be a place of security. Now, I am afraid to let my brother out to play outside alone or go for a night run myself. I have been told all my life that the world is my oasis. How am I supposed to believe this? I believe it because I have faith in myself. I know I turn destruction into beauty. I am in charge. Take charge, friends. We can do it.

As the new Alice and Wonderland movie puts it, "Time is no man's friends." Death can come in a blink of an eye. I recently lost my grandmother. The whole thing came on so quickly. I still see her texts on my phone, hear her sweet voice as if she is whispering in my ear, and feel her soft touch. Am I dreaming? No. My life has slowed down, in a good way. I hate that death sometimes does this, but it has been a wake up call for me. It has made me stop and think about all those who have made me smile. Thank you to all of you. You are God's gift and my saving grace. You have come as angels on this Earth. I encourage you to think, are you an angel on Earth to anyone? I bet you are a guardian angel for many and you don't even know!

So, I must look back on the things that have shaped me into the woman I am today, count my gifts I have now, and hold the key tightly in my hands that is to open my future; the future of my dreams.

As to the memories that have made me smile and shaped me into who I am today, thank you.

I am grateful to have had such supportive parents even after divorce. Both have taught me how to love, that I am special, and that the world is at my fingertips.

I am grateful for my continuing education. Thank you dad for all of your sacrifice in order to send me to such impactful schools.

Thank you for my mother, who has shown me unconditional love and support.

I could go on and on. Thank you Nonno, Auntie Gloria (hot Italian), and Grandma Christine.

I must count the gifts I have in my life right now, thank them.

To my brother, thank you. He is the best person that has come into my life. He is my safe place. He shows me love and laughter. He gives me his whole heart and has taught me to give mine.

To my supportive boyfriend, Bryan, thank you. He has shown me the love I deserve. His heart is so big and I want to explore the world with him. He is my other half.

To my best friend Marshall. Don't even know where to begin. Just got a Snapchat from the devil as we speak!

To the key that opens the door to my future, thank you.

Here is where my article shifts. As to this piece, I thank myself. Yourself? Yes. You hold they key to your future. You are great. You are lovable. You are worth it. You are powerful. You are smart. You are amazing. You deserve everything. I am all these things and I believe them to be true. The world is your Oasis. You hold the key to your future. Take charge. Have confidence. Think of your powerful picture. Be that picture.

Continue to grow my friends. Continue to love yourself. Thank those who have made an influence on your life. Most importantly, thank yourself.