Some of the many lessons that I had to learn this past year in 2017 were definitely challenging and not the happiest times in my life, but having said that-- I know it needed to happen for a specific reason even if I didn't want anything to do with what had taken place. Here are some of the things that I learned...
"Fake Friends: Once they stop talking to you, they start talking about you."
I have certainly learned the next biggest lesson of my life with having to understand and recognize what a true friendship really is like instead of what it's not. I have experienced this many times throughout the yrs and trying to re learn it over and over again hasn't necessarily been the greatest part of my life either. I've had to take into consideration that no matter how many people you become friends with, some of them are never going to realize exactly what they know will never be a part of their lives anymore. If you are reading through this, I can only hope that you'll get the serious help you need to get yourself together... before you end up hurting somebody else's feelings like you hurt mine.
#WhatDoesntKillYouMakesYouStronger. #IfTheyOnlyKnew.
I have thoroughly loved getting the amazing opportunity to volunteer at the best neighborhood elementary school ever these past seven years. What an absolute incredible life changing experience it has turned out to become for someone like myself who at first never thought they would be very good at this kinda thing but knowing that I can do it has been surreal. I have also truly learned to find myself loving third grade students unconditionally which to me has been such a treat, in more ways than one. They are definitely such a JOY to work with and I cannot wait to get to know them even better after this holiday break comes to an end.
I have been able to learn that the power of prayer is real and works wonders...(especially since that I had to see one of my own go through this past year and understanding that our Heavenly Father will always be there for us whenever we need him at any given moment. I was certainly able to feel the strength of those prayers that were given on our behalf and there were moments when I was feeling incredibly like almost unwilling to bear a burden that I was not sure I could bear without his help.) I know that because of him and what he has gone through for us, we can't ever give up on him and knowing his hand in our lives will forever be a blessing!!!
I've also had many new opportunities come my way this year and with having joined the Advocates As Leaders Speakers Network which is a somewhat kind of an average size of a committee of individuals like myself that go out in their communities and give presentations on various topics like Internet Safety, Self Advocacy, Supported Decision Making, etc. I have really enjoyed getting the chance to share what I know about how to be successful in life in spite of the many challenges and obstacles that come in your way. I have really continued to learn so much about not only myself, but what people with special needs face everyday and letting them be aware of the many resources that are available for them to look into with accomplishing their individual life endeavors.
Events coming in 2018:
Continuing to advocate for individuals like myself and sharing my message of hope with them about being self determined to make their own decisions, as well as follow their dreams in whatever they set their minds to.
Night To Shine Prom sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation (Ogden, Utah)
Youth Mentor/Counselor/Staff at the 2018 NINJA Youth Leadership Conference in Logan, Utah on the Utah State University campus. (June)
Girls Trip to Southern, California!!!!
Family Togethers
Getting to see my niece for the first time... (Hopefully, this will be a very legit and positive experience for me.) I'm seriously just not sure what to expect from this whole thing exactly... but it will be good once she gets here!!!) #CrossingMyFingersForThis.
Can't wait to see how the rest of this school year will turn out and excited for the adventures that await me down the road.
As you can see, this past year in 2017 has been filled of ups and downs but I wouldn't want it any other way. I have definitely been able to see myself grow and learn new things from everyone around me. I am grateful for my Savior and his hand in my life throughout this entire year...He continues to watch out for me regardless of anything else that comes in my path.
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