One year ago

One year ago today was the day I graduated from high school. Its crazy to think that it has been a whole year already. I still feel like I am in school. I still feel the excitement of the approaching summer vacation and the freedom that comes with it. I could feel the end of the year approaching as the seasons gradually changed from winter to spring to the brink of summer. I guess after 12 years of school that feeling is so deeply embedded in me that it won't go away for a while.

So much has happened in this past year. Got my first job. I broke my first bone AND my second bone, which ironically happened at the same time and, sadly, the day after graduation. I moved out of my dads house. Crashed my first car. Payed for my first car. Had my first real relationship. Started college. Crashed my second car. Got my second job.Fell in love with live music. Bought my second car. Lost my first job. Been in dozens of "relationships" that lasted a few days to a few weeks. And a hell of a lot of other things.

This year has been one of the roughest, and at the same time most incredible years of my life. I have met so many people. Done so many things that I didn't see happening in a long time. I mean outside of paying rent I am essentially supporting myself. And despite all the ups and downs, I wouldn't change a single detail about this past year if I was given the opportunity.

All of this goes to show that no matter how rough things may get in your life, it will get better. I mean I was in a really bad spot more than once this past year. I mean I could have gone to jail for one little decision I made. But I fought through all of that. I stuck it out and can now say that I am happy. I wouldn't want things to be any other way.

The most important thing to remember is that there are ALWAYS people in your life that will help you however you can. It may not seem like it at the time, but they are there. I know I had my share of moments when I felt like I was on my own. But my friends and family were always there to help me in any way they could.

One of the greatest people in my life introduced me to this band last summer called We Came As Romans. At first I didn't really like their music, but the more I listened the more I began to like them. And I may not listen to them very often, but they are one of my favorite bands. Their music is all about love and brotherhood. I can honestly say that their music has changed my life. For me a good song makes me want to move and a powerful song gives me the chills. And this band is one of the only bands that can manage to do both at the same time. Thank you so much for showing me this band and all that they stand for Rachel.

"For we are nothing without brotherhood, and brotherhood is nothing without your brothers. Stay with me and see what my eyes have seen, take my hand and let me show you what it is to love"- WCAR