I’ve got two people whom I would like to honor with this amazing AGT collab today:
The first is my friend Simon who is celebrating his birthday! Simon has been one of the few friends who has supported me since freshman year of college and I wanted to express my gratitude for his contributions to my life. He has always supported me be it my academics, musical endeavors, Mario Kart skills, or dad passing away, and he remembers to tell me how much he appreciates me as a friend, helping to diminish my feelings of self doubt and reassure me that I deserve my place in this world. Thank you for sticking by me Simon, you are the reason!
The second is family friend Jill, who passed away in a car crash recently due to the actions of a stranger. A nurse who was also the mother of four, sister of five, and aunt to over a dozen, she is the reason many people kept their hearts beating and spirits up; I fondly remember her encouraging me to chase my dreams and affectionately calling me “kiddo.” You were a light in the dark, Jill, and I hope you rest in peace. For those reading this, please remember to drive as safely as possible as you are responsible for the lives of many others besides your own behind the wheel, and to be kind to others as you never know who is still grieving after a loss.