The Bittersweetness of Growing

Over the last 10 months, so much has changed. I’ve had a crazy year, but a year worth remembering. A year worth looking back on and laughing (or crying) about how fast it’s gone. For my final blog as a MSA Literary Junior, I want to take a trip down memory lane and recognize those who have helped me throughout the year. These are in no particular order.

1. McCarley Martin

McCarley is my best friend. While I’ve known of her since I was a kid, (her mom taught me and we went to the same school since kindergarten) we didn’t become friends until 8th grade. She is the most forgiving, loving, caring person I know. We have stuck together through thick and thin, (suspension and drama), and still to this day I’ve never met someone like her. 

2. Clare Whatley

Ohhhh my Clare. The first time I met Clare was the second day of living at MSA. She is one of my suitemates. At that time, she had bright colorful pink hair, and I remember thinking she was the coolest person I’d ever met. Her choice in music, movies, her artistic ability, personality, look, and everything else about her is so awesome. She always lets me rant to her, no matter what, and don’t think I thank her enough for that. 

3. Bristol Grissette

Bristol is my other suitemate. When I first saw Bristol, I thought “Oh my Gosh, I love them.” Their alternative style, and cool posters influenced me to talk to them. Honestly, for most of the year I had the impression that Bristol was a very quiet and calm person, which they are most of the time, but when we got close, I saw a whole other side of them.  They are funny, chaotic, a crash out for sure, genuine and compassionate. I consider Bristol one of my best friends, and I’m so happy that I’ve gotten that close to them. 

4. Robin Russell

Robin is one of my biggest supporters. Literally my ride or die. Whenever I feel any type of way, I know I can go to Robin and not be judged. She is always down to go out, always down to come chill, always down to be there when needed. Honestly, I thrive to be the type of person she is. She is faithful, kind, loving, nourishing, academically passionate, funny, and she never lets anyone walk over her. She authentically herself, and she doesn’t care who has something to say about it. I love Robin and have grown to appreciate her more and more over the year. After this year, (yes talking to you; I know you’re reading this) we have to promise to see each other often! I love you! 

5. David Walker 

Oh David. We have had our ups and downs, but at the end of the day I sort of look at you as my brother in an odd way. You hold me accountable for my actions, and you are confident in who you are. I genuinely enjoy your presence and I’m so glad you DM’d me on TikTok all that time ago. Thank you for helping me become who I aspire to be and thank you for all the times you clocked me about your friend. 

There are SO many more people I’d like to thank, but for my OWN well-being I’m wrapping this up here. 

Some honorable mentions- All my teacher and staff, my family, friends from home, the whole literary class of 2026-2027, Ms. Wendy, my friends, my exs and ohs (get it?), and everyone that inspired me to be who I am today. 

Most importantly, I thank myself. I thank myself for not giving up when I really… really wanted too. I thank myself for not leaving when my best friend decided dance might not be for her. I thank myself for giving those compliments, hugging my friends, deciding to be in the moment. I thank myself for using my writing as a way to get my feelings out there. I thank myself for giving MSA the chance it deserves. 

Before I get too upset, I’m going to end this. I love all of you guys. EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU. I hope everyone has the best summer ever.