Maybe you're a college freshman and you are living on your own for the first time.

Maybe you just moved out of your parents house and got your own job.

Maybe you're high school student that can't wait to get out of your boring hometown.

Whatever your situation, we have all felt that longing of wanting to be on our own. Wanting to be independent.

You may not think much about it at first, but the roots that your hometown or your parents have put in you, are very much worth holding on to.

From the moment I started college, I decided to never forget my roots. Growing up I was taught so much about life through my parents and everyone around me.

My mom taught me to be strong and never give up. She taught me that sometimes we just have to go with the flow and let life be.

There have been so many times throughout my college years so far that I have had to really take a step back and go with the flow. Whether it be that I forgot to do some homework or a final that really had me stressed.

My Dad has always instilled in me from a young age, whether he realizes it or not, that laughter is so important. I have had so many days when all I could resort to was just laughing and having a good time. Sometimes that's the best thing we can do in rough situations.

My parents played such a huge role in my background. They're one of the main reasons that I am who I am today.

Along with parents, I'm sure anyone who is from a small town would say that it becomes such a huge part of who you are.

The people I grew up with both in school and in church, taught me so much about respect, caring for others, equality, and compassion. I have always been told to love everyone regardless of their personal choices or beliefs and that is something that is huge today.

In my little hometown of Marion, NC, everybody knows everybody. It's so common to hear "I grew up with your Mom and Dad!" or "You look just like your Mom when she was your age!" These comments are so easily overlooked, but I've realized that they really show how close knit we all are. We all are proud of where we come from and all those memories from being a little girl in church and in elementary school really do mean everything to me.

College has really allowed me to see my younger years at a different perspective. I really see how literally each and every person made such an impact on me and on the person who I am today.

I am so thankful to have grown up in a small town. My parents, school teachers, and church family taught me so much and I would not be where I am today without their lessons, their support, and their love.

The next time you find yourself wanting to get out of your parents house or your hometown, just remember that your roots are what will get you to the next step in your life.

Never take a moment or a single memory for granted and never forget who you are.