THEY HAVE MADE ME WHO I AM TODAY

It all begins with my family. 

I wouldn't exist if not for them, so I guess in that way they've been 

fairly influential. 

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A semi-dysfunctional family of five, stationed just south of the Twin Cities.

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My father, Dave, from Bloomington, MN. Proud Minnesota Gopher.

One of the funniest people I know.

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My mother, Paula, from Milwaukee, WI. Unfortunately, a Badger. (Better Dead than Red)

The most faithful, kind, caring, human I have ever met.

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My older sister, Alexandria.

Brilliant. Hardworking. She left me big shoes to fill.

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Me. Stuck in the middle. 

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My younger brother, Ryan. 

The reason my dad is just 'one of' the funniest people I know. Also a weirdo.

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Not to mention Nani and Papa (maternal grandparents), and the many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends so close they have become part of my family. 

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I wouldn't be myself without them in my life. 

I am happiest when I am with them. I care so deeply about all of them.

I look forward to the times when we can be together.

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But it goes far beyond that. In many ways, they are my motivation to continue to strive to become a better person. 

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My biggest motivator in life is to make my mom and Nani proud. 

It isn't explicit, but the way they Nani lived her life, and the way my mom continues to live hers is inspiring.

I know that if I have made them proud, I have lived my life well. 

So that is what I am striving to do every day.

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Be faithful. Be kind. Be caring.

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