With you, I can.

Many times we would have ourselves believe that our accomplishments are ours and ours alone. This is simply not true. I look around at what I have and all that I've accomplished so far in my short life, and there's no way I did it by myself.

Thank you's and just recognitions too often go unsaid. But I would like to take the time right now to express my appreciation for all the people who I am lucky enough to call my friends, family, co-workers, peers and mentors.

I owe my parents more than I could ever pay back. They stand beside me like two great pillars to lean on when I feel as though I may fall. Never wavering nor faltering at any adversity that came my way. Even with their strong exterior they looked upon my decisions with kind and understanding eyes, always willing to let me pave my own way. I'm blessed to have the benefit of not only being raised by them but being raised with manners, morals and high expectations for myself and future. Rarely did things come easy in that household; but rarely are the things worth doing ever easy. Life has been easier because of the values they have instilled in me and that is something to be thankful for.

Along with my parents, I have the most amazing set of peers and co-workers who I can call friends as well. After moving 200 miles from the only place I had ever called home, these people took me in and gave me the opportunity to have two homes. I am eternally grateful for this. I look to them for inspiration, comfort and wisdom and they never cease to amaze me with all they have to offer.

I'm not sure if a simply thanks is thanks enough but it is all I have. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

"A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble."