Alright, 2016 is on its way out, and honestly, what a jerk. I don't know who they are, thinking they can take some of our most loved ones, sending hurricanes to the American coast, terrorist attacks in France, Donald Trump being elected president...need I go on? Needless to say, 2016 was hard for many people all over the world, and I was no exception. I went through a really rough patch at the beginning of summer, spent eight whole days in the hospital at the end of October, and was in my first ever car wreck all in this past year. Even with 2016 being incredibly rough, I am a die-hard optimist and believe that each year is a chance for growth and new opportunities, so I have a plea for 2017.

Let me just start by saying that I believe you have the potential to be a great year, and I promise to walk into January with an open mind and a positive attitude. I do have a few things to ask of you, though. My first request is that you stop taking our favorite people: our idols, our family members, those that we look up to most. 2016 brought too much heartbreak, and I think you can afford to give us all a break. On the same plane, can you please ease up on the senseless violence towards specific groups of people? The Pulse Shooting brought me to tears as I read the names of people who were killed for being just like me. On top of that, all of the innocent people who are harassed and killed for the color of their skin or the religion they chose to practice. It doesn't make any sense and I would appreciate it if it could come to an end.

Speaking of violence aimed at people, can we do away with school shootings? I may be biased as both a college student and a future teacher, but these shootings make me worried all the time. What is going to happen when I go to class, or when I start teaching? The Townville shooting was too close to home this time, and I don't think these teachers and students deserve to be attacked at a place that is supposed to be safe.

Another thing, could we end all the senseless war going on? It's making things worse, and our troops are missing their families, and for those who are less fortunate, are never able to see their families again. Tensions are high, especially with Trump taking office in January, and I am so worried for our country and those trying to protect it. Our financial situation isn't good enough to support war for much longer, and I'm so afraid our country is running itself into the ground.

There is plenty more that could be changed, 2017, but those are the big ones. I just want to see an end to all of the death and sadness that 2016 brought along with it.

I hope you all have a happy, healthy, safe, 2017. Thank you all for reading, I am so incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to write for you all.