To my family: I am who I am because of how you raised me. I try my hardest to be polite and respectful. I cook and I clean for myself. I am a hard working individual. I love reading and I take every opportunity I can get my hands on to express myself. I am sarcastic and I am funny. I am who I am because of who you are.

To my best friends: I learned to roll with the punches. I've learned the value of an adventure. I've seen first-hand what hard work and dedication can do for someone. I've learned to love the parts of myself that others hate. I've learned how to be more open minded. I've started to try and find the good in every situation. I am who I am because of who you are.

To my ex-friends: I learned what my comfort zone is. I learned how many chances I will give before I can no longer give all of myself. I learned what I am worth. I learned how much I can take. I learned what it means to truly care for people. I learned how to accept what I can not change. I am who I am because of who you were.

To myself, nine years ago: I learned my strengths. I learned my weaknesses. I learned that if I want something to change, I have to make it change. I learned what it means to love myself. I learned what it means to compromise. I learned what it means to be proud of myself. I learned what it means to be afraid and how to conquer those fears. I am who I am because of who you couldn't be.