In life there are certain first impressions that are distinctively preserved in our mind’s precious collection of memories. Your first day of school, first love interest, first true friendship . . . We encounter these experiences with heightened senses in order to capture the moment genuinely and seize its entirety.

There will be particular hellos and goodbyes that I will not forget; their impressions will remain vivid throughout my life. Phoenix will be both a “hello” and a “goodbye” that I will not soon forget.

My collegiate education was accompanied with many life lessons:

• You cannot, I repeat cannot, change someone. Instead, be accepting of your friends. Love them for the good and evil they posses. Take into consideration that humans are profound beings- complete with an entire life history, which is apart of them.
• Popularity is a temporary vanity that many pursue. Being “cool” does not begin with gaining the acceptance of others; it is contrary to that- it begins with the acceptance of oneself.
• Guard safe your heart for as long as time will allow. But, when it breaks pay particular attention to the pieces. Familiarize yourself with them – learn how they fit together and get to know the void that is meant for the right person.
• Be a sponge. If you want to be the best, seek the best mentors. People are equipped with diverse talents and gifts- Absorb.

I can only hope that I used my time here as wisely as possible. I have met a handful of people who I will miss dearly and whose lives I will miss being apart of.

As author of my life story, I will put a close to this chapter on a good note and begin anew. Farewell Phoenix!