Gratitude

From my sister, I learned almost everything. She has always stood in my corner - fierce, loyal, unwavering. I know that if the world ever turned against me, she would still tear it apart to protect me. She taught me how to think, how to fight, how to endure. She guided me when I was lost, pushed me when I slowed down, and held me up when I couldn’t stand. From her, I saw what grit looks like, what intelligence feels like, what it means to not quit. I can never repay her debt.

From my mother and father, I learned love and strength. They have held my hand at every step, literally and otherwise. I know they are always behind me, watching, protecting, letting me try, but never letting me fall too far. I do what I do because they let me take risks without fear. They taught me about business, about values, about how to be kind without being weak. They have made sure I’ve never once felt alone. I owe everything to them.

From my cousins, I received knowledge shared freely. They answered my thousand questions without ever making me feel small. They took me along for the ride, gave me advice when I needed it, and always showed up. I’ve laughed with them, learned from them, and leaned on them. And I continue to.

From my grandparents, I received warmth. My parents are who they are because of them. I remember the food, the stories, the phone calls, the feeling of always being remembered. Their love has always been quiet and steady. And always present.

From my mama and mami, I learned what clarity sounds like. I admire your ability to host, to guide, to persist. I admire the resilience with which you live and the grace with which you offer advice. Your visits make my home feel full. I hope to build that quality in myself.

From my chacha and chachi, I’ve felt quiet support. You always call to congratulate me, and you never miss those moments. I don’t take it for granted.

From my first-school friends, I learned how to grow up gently. You made me feel safe, supported, and seen. That matters more than I understood at the time.

From my second-school friends, I learned what it means to belong. We grew up together. You brought me along, invited me in, and reminded me what friendship looks like.

From the friends in my apartment complex, I learned to play. I have some of my fondest memories with you. Sports became a part of my identity because of those games. That changed my life.

From NWGs, I learned how to survive. You stood by me through some of the hardest phases of my life. You never flinched. You never left. I know I can always count on you.

From my college friends and my frisbee team, I learned what it means to build a second family. You made college feel like home. You made me laugh, made time for me, put up with me - and I love you for it. College has been one of the happiest times of my life, and it is because of you.

From my school teachers, college professors, and mentors, I learned to love learning. You didn’t kill the spark. You let me be curious. You created space. You opened doors. You believed in me when I didn’t. You gave me opportunities and told me I was good enough to take them. You helped me fall in love with work, and that has made all the difference.