23

23

            I turned 23 last Friday, and it was a weird feeling for me. To tell you the truth I wouldn’t have made it very far without some special people in my life. This blog is a dedication to those who have helped shape, mold, and guide me into the man I am today.

Mom and Dad: You both are without a doubt one of the best gifts God has given me. How do I begin to explain your dedication in sacrificing so much just so that I may succeed in life in every way possible? You give. Not just in a materialistic way (although, you’ve never withheld anything that I needed), but you give your time, which is far more precious than anything tangible. You spend time with me. You’re involved in my life. You care about my aspirations, dreams, and goals. In a nutshell, you give all that you have, so that I may have more. Because of you I know what a Godly marriage is. Because of you I know what a loving parent does. You gave me life. You have saved my life. Thank you. I love you.

Tyler: Being the oldest brother, you’ve always had a big weight of responsibility on your shoulders. Well, rest easily, because you’ve fulfilled this role near flawlessly. I’ve always looked up to you (ok maybe not physically haha). You have set the example of what it means to live for Jesus. Your faith has inspired me to dare to have faith. I am always so proud to call you my older brother. Your relentless pursuit to see me live a joy-filled life has always meant so much to me. One day I hope to have your courage, confidence, and passion (and energy). I love you.

Hunter: I am always surprised to hear about how much you look up to me, because in reality it is I who looks up to you. I admire you, because there are so many things about yourself that you do better at than me (and I’m older than you!). Your wisdom is quietly spoken, yet loudly heard. Where would I be without your forgiving heart? I remember I actually cried reading your senior letter to me. Because you care so much about me, I strive to do and be better. I love you.

Grandparents/Aunts/Uncles/Cousins: My family is by far the most unique family out there. I came to the realization of this in college when I became aware just how many families aren’t as close as mine is. You all are such a blessing to me. You care about my well being, and are present in my life. Most people have to drive hours to see relatives. Just about all of you live less than 30 minutes away. Thank you for choosing to love each other (and me), and choosing to not be content with average. I could talk about you separately for days, but this blog would be pages long. I love each and every single one of you.

Friends: If you don’t think this applies to you, it probably does. Whether we are still close now, or may have drifted apart for whatever reasons this is for you. Thank you for being there for me. Thank you for sharing a piece of yourself with me. Without you how could I have learned anything about the world (or myself)? Maybe we’ve been friends for years. Maybe we haven’t talked in years. Maybe we’ve only had a few conversations. Whatever the scenario, you played a role in shaping my life. You helped me see things differently. For that I am thankful.

Here’s to being another year older. What lies ahead might just be the craziest year of my entire life. With all of your support behind me…I might just make it!