This past week, I had the honor of attending a teen leadership conference at the Choice Center University in Las Vegas, Nevada — an experience I will never forget. It was more than just a conference; it was a mythic journey full of self-indulgence and discovery. I went into the whole affair with an open mind and heart, and I came out with more than I ever thought possible.

On the very first day, I had a gut feeling that it was going to be something amazing, and it was. Unfortunately, I cannot disclose any information pertaining to the exercises. However, I assure you that I fell in love with the event more and more as each minute passed. It is designed so that everyone gets something different out of it, but, ultimately, you get what you put in. I put in my all and got everything I needed.

As my journey continued through, I found myself opening up more to those around me. In a sense, I felt vulnerable. And it was in those moments that I had never felt closer to anyone.

I remember two particular feelings. One was an intense depression from an overwhelming weight of baggage I had accumulated over the years. The other was an intense anxiety due to trust issues scarring me. I can vividly remember the moments after because those were the times that people would genuinely reach their hands out to make sure I was OK. In those moments I began to discover another family, one in which I will always hold near and dear to my heart.

I had the honor to join TL 33 in all of our self-discovery, and in my journey I have discovered that:

I am a strong, selfless, loyal, human being.

To those wondering if this is really worth it, I will tell you that I would give up anything to experience it all over again.