For the past week, I had the privilege of traveling to Hawaii, a place I have dreamed of going since I was a little girl. While there, I saw so many wonderful things and learned many interesting things as well.

The first day in Hawaii, we hiked to the top of Diamond Head, which is the largest state monument on the Big Island. It was very rough and I doubted whether or not I could get all the way to the top. However, I underestimated myself and I made it all the way to the very top of the monument. I was very proud of myself for completing the hike. Once I reached the top and saw the beautiful view, the hike seemed so worth it. This hike taught me that in order to be satisfied, you have to work hard (you might feel like you want to die a couple times, but that's just part of it).

While driving through the neighborhoods of Hawaii, I noticed some of them were poverty-stricken. I saw people living in their cars, which was something I had never seen before with my own eyes. I was so shocked to see this and I couldn't believe it. I constantly think of ways I believe my life could be better or things I would like to have that I don't, however, once I saw these people living in their cars, I had a complete change of heart. These people taught me to be thankful for everything that I have. I am healthy, have a wonderful family who loves me, am able to attend college to someday make a better living for myself, and am a happy person overall. Though this was a sad sight to see, it really taught me to be thankful for what I have.

I have had the time of my life in Hawaii. I learned many valuable lessons about life that I will carry with me forever. I will forever cherish this vacation.