To You:
Who never quit believing in my potential in spite of all of my many flaws.
Who listens with open ears and open arms.
Who laughs with me and cries with me.
Who doesn't judge me based on who I was but is proud of who I am becoming.
Who laughs at every awkward and ridiculous moment I have ever had.
Who rejoices with me even in the little things.
Who understands me better than I sometimes understand myself.
Who has had a serious investment in my life.
Who has grown with me and watched me grow over the past several years.
Who has helped me overcome so many of my fears.
Who has been honest with me even if it was hard.
Who has not been afraid to challenge me to not settle or merely get by.
Who has taught me the importance of perseverance.
Who has listened to me talk about my heart for kids and women.
Who has taught me to be patient.
Who has taught me to love unconditionally.
Who has shown me the importance of God as my source and no one else.
Who has merely been.
Thank you. There are so many more that I could add to this list, but I think you get the gist. I have been blessed beyond measure with some of the most wonderful and Godly friends I could have ever imagined. This past week has really reminded me of that. I am thankful to each and every one of you who has walked this journey of life with me whether it be for a little part or large. God has shown me His love through so many of you, and you have been some of the greatest hands and feet I have ever known. Thank you for taking the time to believe in me. Know that I will always, always believe in you.
These past few weeks have also been exciting in that two of my dear friends have gotten engaged:
Alina is my best friend and sister even if not by blood. We have been through thick and thin together for the past 4 years, and her life is such a blessing. She just got engaged to a pretty awesome guy named Jonathan, and I cannot wait to see how God uses and blesses their marriage. I feel honored and privileged that I get to share in their special day. In all honesty, if Alina hadn't allowed God to use her in the way that she had, I would not be the young lady that I am today. I am thankful to the Lord for the incredible gift she is and am so excited to see the start of her and Jonathan's life together. Words cannot adequately express all that this wonderful person means to me.
Amy has been one of my closest friends in college. She laughs with me at anything and everything no matter how absolutely dumb it is. Her love of sweet tea and her appreciation of Elvis are two of the things we share in common (along with an unhealthy love of the caffeinated beverage known as coffee). She is getting ready to marry Daniel, and I could honestly not be more excited for them. The happiness she has is contagious, and I also cannot wait to share in their special day. I'm excited to give her one giant hug.
I encourage you to look around you (and not just in close proximity) to the people that God has blessed your life with. Relationships are gifts and gifts that should not be taken lightly. There are so many people in my life that have blessed me tremendously, and to you, know that you have made the difference. God used you in making me who I am today, and I want you to know that I will never forget that. Some of you I have only known for 6 months to a year, others a couple years or more, and others my whole life (love you family!). However, I am beyond thankful for the gift you have been in my life.
So to you, thank you. I appreciate and love you more than you will ever know.
