Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. -Jeremiah 17:7

I've done a lot of reflecting this week.

I've done a lot of reflecting on school, my relationships, my family, and just life in general. I've gone through some hardships, some easy stuff, and everything in between. And I've realized that no matter what I'm going through, I have this amazing group of people who have my back and support me.

I need to take some time out of my busy schedule to thank the people that I appreciate the most.

To my friends:

Whether we've been friends for years or we've just met recently, each and every one of you is important to me. I know God has put you in my life at this point in time just for reasons only He knows. I appreciate all of our late night talks and our inside jokes. I appreciate all the quality time spent hanging out and messing around. To my music major friends, without you guys showing me the ropes and making me laugh so hard in the thousands of rehearsals we are put through, I'm not sure where I'd be. Thank you for making beautiful music with me and pushing me hard when I need a little kick in the butt. Thank you.

To my voice teacher:

You were new to me this year. You took me on as a student and told me to trust you. Although it took just a little time to trust what you had to say and that you were only telling me to make me not only a better singer but also a better person, I know I can trust you now. I appreciate it that even when I do poorly in a lesson or a performance, you don't sugar coat it but you still encourage and help me move on to the next one. Thank you for giving me the occasional pep talk when I'm feeling stressed. Thank you for teaching me life lessons along with vocal technique. Thank you for talking things through with me when I'm confused about something. Thank you.

To my boyfriend:

Where do I begin with you? You've been by my side since day one. You comfort me when I'm sad, you laugh with me when I'm happy, you encourage me when I'm feeling stressed, and you kick me in the butt when you know I can do better. You show me unconditional love every single day no matter what. You support me at every concert with flowers in hand and you greet me at the end of the show with a big smile and a hug. You're my biggest fan, and I love knowing that I can come to you to vent or cry or tell you a funny story whenever one comes along at any time and you'll be there to listen. Thank you.

To my family:

I've saved the best for last. You’ve taught me everything I know. From the minute I was born, I had two kind, loving people looking after and supporting me no matter what. I will never be able to thank you enough for what that has done for me. I grew up watching two people love each other and all people and strive to make their dreams a reality; you are the two things that are most important me. You’ve shown me music and how it can affect a life. You’ve shown me patience when I didn’t deserve it. You’ve shown me unconditional love no matter what. I know that whatever comes up in my life, you’ll stand with me and face it head on. I know that I am never alone, because I will always have you guys. Thank you.

I have an amazing support team that helps me every single day. I know that I’ll always be able to count on them for a phone call, a lunch date, or just a nice talk at night. I look up to these people because not only are they great supporters, they’re just great people in general that I aspire to be like someday.