Every insight and revelation I’ve ever gained has come through my relationships—both the relationship with myself and with others. Our connections don’t always offer happiness, but every relationship offers an opportunity for greater consciousness, peace and clarity.

To those who believe in me, have faith, and expect more from me every day—from you I learn who I am and who I might become.

To those who have forgiven, held patience, offered advice, and stood by– as hard as it may have been– as I struggled to learn the lessons that were meant for me. I learned from you, and now I can try to do the same for others.

To those who have broken my heart, pissed me off, made me cry, and embarrassed me—from you I learn humility, empathy, compassion, and how to overcome insecurity.

To those who have inspired, motivated, educated, and entered my life as an example of what I might become—from you I learn about possibility and hope.

To those whose encounters are brief—a smile, a kind gesture, an open door, a word of encouragement—from you I learn that nothing is insignificant.

To those people and situations that have scarred, scared and shaken me—from you I learn faith, courage and the power to heal.

To those who are difficult in every way—from you I learn the ways in which I am difficult, so I can learn how to change or accept myself.

To the sweet people in my life who teach me how to love and be loved—you have given me everything.

For every encounter, every conversation, every glance, and every moment that I have ever shared with another human being:

Thank you.