Family
Friends and family are the people who shape our lives in ways both big and small. Family often forms our first sense of belonging, teaching us values, traditions, and how to care for others. Through shared history and unconditional support, family gives us roots—something steady to return to no matter how far we go.
I come from a family of seven with four brothers—two older and two younger. My oldest brother is five years older than me and works as a nurse. He’s engaged to my soon-to-be sister-in-law, who is a wonderful person. My second oldest brother is two years older than me and is still figuring out what he wants to do. He currently works in retail and enjoys playing video games.
My third brother is a year and a half younger than me and is graduating high school this year. He plays baseball and hopes to attend a college where he can continue playing, possibly pursuing something in business or finance, though he isn’t completely sure yet. My youngest brother is four years younger than me and is a freshman in high school. He mostly enjoys playing video games and spending time with his friends whenever he can.
Friends
Friends, on the other hand, are the family we choose. They walk beside us through different stages of life, sharing laughter, struggles, and growth. Friends help us discover who we are outside of expectations, offering new perspectives and reminding us that we are not alone in our experiences.
One of the friends that have shaped my life the most, is my best friend Keonna. I have known her since I was in 6th grade so since I was 11 years old so 8 years about but really became best friend in 10th grade. We have done so many things together over the years, and grown together into better people. We started I&K crochet 2 together. We both are going to college for graphic design, she goes to South Dakota State, so I only see her on breaks. while I go to Dakota County Technical College. This picture is from her 18th birthday where we went to Las Vegas together with her mom and had a really good time and made lots of memories.
How they have shaped my life
Together, friends and family create a support system that helps us navigate life's challenges and celebrate its joys. In moments of success, they cheer the loudest; in moments of hardship, they stand closest. Their love, trust, and presence give life meaning, making even ordinary days feel richer and more connected.
A lot of my friends are my coworkers, and over the two years I have worked at the restaurant, we have grown really close. Through them, I have had so many new experiences that I probably would not have tried otherwise—like going to the Renaissance fair, snowboarding, and attending my first (and second) rave. Maybe I would have done some of these things eventually, but before working here, I was much less open to trying new things and exploring.