Every individual traverses their own path as they grow up and are affected by so many people along on the way. My story is no different. I couldn't be more appreciative for every person who has helped mold me into the man I am today, and the man I am still to become.

As many others, I was raised by a single parent and by no means is that a rare case in today's society. As a child, I was unaware of how a household with a mother and father worked. Things may have gone smoother but I would never change the way things have played out to this day. It is so important to have a strong support system and to acknowledge those who have acted as your support. This is an ode to all those who have most impacted my life over the years. From my grandparents, brothers, sister, mother, father, friends and so forth —

this is for you. Everyone's life is affected by the decisions we make every single day and without all these people my decisions could have easily led me down some very dark paths. I am nowhere near the man I will one day become, but as I approach reality ever closer, I know I will be prepared to step up to the plate and be who I have been trained to be.

My grandparents instilled love, faith, and positivity into my life. My brothers taught me hard work and leadership. My sister, who I did not meet until late into my teens, taught me the importance of loving your siblings. My mother taught me the true concept of forgiveness. My father taught me that anything is possible and to appreciate so many things in life. My friends have shown me the excitement in life but have also been a consistent support system for me for so long. There are so many more lessons that each of these people have taught me without their knowing. The list could go on and on.

It is important to take a step back and acknowledge those who have made the biggest impact in your life and to express your appreciation towards those people. I know the ones in my life and I know the decisions I could have made along the way. Never remain down in the dumps about your situation. It is never easy but we will always have support behind us no matter who it is. We have all been trained through others.

To conclude, I would simply like to thank everyone for everything I have been given, I have been taught and for being my guide through this thing we call life. There is still a long journey ahead.

"Life is a battle, life is a war. The conflicts that met us are nothing more than a test to see who we live for. So face the strife and beat it right, never stay down and win the night." -DJV