Because of you...

The lessons you learn, the knowledge you gain, the confidence you discover, the person you become - all of these are influenced by other people. Believe it or not, they determine who you are more than you do. Protest if you must, but think about it: from the haters who told you you could never do it, to the family and friends who watched you prove them wrong - their being in your life has made you the person you are. I know I'm quoting him for the hundredth time, but it's literally among my absolute favorite quotes: Fox Mulder said, "Maybe it's other people's reactions to us that makes us who we are."


Because of you...

• I know what it's like to have a heart broken for the better
• I know that there are Christians who are the real deal
• I know promises were made to be broken
• I know total strangers can become really good friends
• I know how to sing even when I don't know the words
• I know that you were the best thing I never had
• I know that things will never be the same, but the things to come are promised to be better
• I know that being a coward can ruin something amazing, but being honest can bring something you never thought would happen
• I know it's okay to not have the answers, just keep asking questions
• I know being strong is a choice
• I know my world will never be the same

Because of you...

• I can wake up in the morning knowing that, no matter what happened yesterday, you'll still be there
• I can appreciate the little things
• I can give it my all and know it will be enough
• I can get loud in the car when my favorite songs come on and not be ashamed
• I can think for myself
• I can trust people
• I can start embracing the young lady I am
• I can ditch the "I don't need anyone" mentality that's consumed my life all of these years
• I can stand strong, knowing you're beside me

Because of you...

• I am more aware of what I say and how I say it
• I am more honest
• I am happier
• I am stronger
• I am confident
• I am caring
• I am more outgoing
• I am "getting out there"
• I am loving life
• I am not as afraid as I once was
• I am walking by faith like you taught me