Ode to those who made me me

So lately, life has been sawweeeet! I've been pretty successful in my ventures and it made me start to really appreciate those in my life who have made me the person I am today.

First and foremost, my fam. 

My mother- Debra has taught me to kind, compassionate, and understanding. My mother is one of the sweetest and most genuine people I have encountered. She is constantly, and sometimes annoyingly, putting others before herself. Through her, I have learned to treat others with respect and to appreciate them for who they are. Her willingness to give of herself to others is truly inspirational. Like others that I will mention, she is always interested to learn, even if it is something that is totally insignificant to her. One of my favorite things about her is that she let's me teach and share new things with her. She is without a doubt my biggest fan and cheerleader. Oh and there's that whole she birthed me thing, that was pretty cool. 

My father- Jimmy has fed my need for knowledge and intellectual understanding. This man is too smart for his britches and that is due to the fact that he always has his nose in a book. 9 times out of 10, it's the bible. He has taught me to have a better understanding of my faith and to get to know the God that I follow. He has always been expectant of me and it makes me push myself further. Although at many times annoying, he is my biggest critic, which has taught me to reflect on my work and constantly be looking for improvements. I'm very curious and have a thirst for all kinds of knowledge, and that one goes to Jim Bob. 

My grandfather- Clifton Grady Hollis was the greatest person I think I will ever encounter in my entire life. I can't even attempt to credit him for all that he did for me. He was my best friend and mentor. I have never met someone who has lived their faith out the way that he did. Every person, no matter how insignificant their meeting might have been, was touched by this man's kindness and love. His funeral was more of a celebration than grieving. People I have never met before were witnesses to his generosity and love for others. He taught me patience, a love of horses and sweets, a love for others, and a love for God. My grandfather taught me the pleasure of quiet and peace. When we were together, we didn't have to always talk, we just enjoyed each other's company. He also made me hungry for a knowledge of the world I live in. We had countless discussions about birds, plants, and everything from A to Z. I miss him more than I can express. 

My brothers- Christopher and Jonathan have always been there to knock me down. Whether it was beating me up, beating me at games, or calling me out for being a jerk, these two have always kept me humble. Both being very successful athletes, it pushed me to be better so that I might also have some limelight. At the same time, it taught me that I am not the only human being on this earth with talent and to be grateful with whatever success I am blessed with. Jonathan's jolliness teaches me to always count the good and Christopher's logic teaches me to have a realistic view. Although we have had our differences, I know that these two will always be there and will protect me from whatever tries to harm me. I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I make either laugh. 

Now to those that I have chosen to be my family. 

Allie Mounce- BFFL since the fourth grade. Brought together through our love of all things animal. The thing I credit her most for is my confidence in who I am. She is constantly questioning me about the things I believe in and has always pushed me to actually know my true self. She has also taught me to take new experiences and run with them. There are always new ideas and ways of thinking with this girl. I am constantly amazed at her eclecticness. Tolerance is also a huge thing with her and I have become less ignorant because of it. Allie also allows and encourages me to be 6 years old, a side of myself I never want to lose. She will be in my life forever.  

Laura Hoffman- Roommate for two years, buddies since the Garrison days. Laura has taught me fierce loyalty. The first day we lived together, we became each other's protectors and sisters. Like Allie, she taught me to look at things from an analytical perspective to see the whole picture, to consider others' feelings instead of my own. She also taught me how to look like a girl, thanks. Naturally, we had our tifts, through them she taught me to be honest and selfish with my feelings. Thanks to her, I have learned how to handle conflict and to be up front with people (many a guy's feelings have been spared as a result). My inner goofball was always welcomed and we shared oh so many obnoxious laughs. Try as she may, try as she might, she could never teach me to spell. 

Jessica Jane- This chick is legit. We've been tight since we were two, and how many people can say that?? She has taught me to be a friend through thick, thin, distance, different lives, and whatever else might strain a relationship. I know that every time I see her, Jessi will make me smile. She is my sunshine! Always bubbly, always awesome. Like everyone, her life is not perfect, things don't always go according to plan, but she is always resilient and doesn't let life get her down. Her attitude has taught that the shadow proves the sunshine and to not let my stuff bring others down. 

My d-group- too many to specifically name. I met these girls on a trip where I knew only one soul, but they opened their arms and hearts to me and it was love. These girls are too much for words. Too much beauty, too much talent, and too much awesomeness. Their accomplishments continue to impress and inspire me. Every one of them has a heart of gold and a true and sincere love for their Lord. I have grown up with them spiritually and in friendship. They truly are my little angels. 

Love each other, the world, and yourselves!