Wicked, the Broadway musical, captivates me in ways few other shows can. This reimagined story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good from The Wizard of Oz brings layers of emotion, perspective, and complexity to characters often painted as simply “good” or “evil.” For me, Wicked stands out for its storytelling, its moving music, and the way it reframes important life themes like friendship, identity, and acceptance. One reason I love Wicked is its nuanced storyline. Instead of showing Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch,” as purely villainous, the show delves into her experiences and struggles. Her “wickedness” turns out to be a misinterpreted series of events shaped by prejudice and misunderstanding, highlighting how easily people can judge others without understanding the full story. This complex portrayal reminds me that people are multi-dimensional and that our circumstances don’t always reflect our intentions. Although we might see someone as "bad" we haven't seen the entirety of their life or the struggles and trials that they have undergone. The music is another powerful element that makes Wicked unforgettable. Songs like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good” go beyond just great melodies—they connect deeply with emotions I’ve felt at different points in life. “Defying Gravity,” for example, resonates with the need to break free from others’ expectations, a theme that’s both liberating and inspiring. In contrast, “For Good” speaks to the impact people have on one another, reflecting on how friendships shape us and sometimes even change us forever. At its core, Wicked is a story about friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery. The relationship between Elphaba and Glinda begins in rivalry but grows into an enduring, transformative bond. Their friendship teaches the audience—and me—valuable lessons about seeing beyond appearances and embracing differences. The musical suggests that true friendships can thrive despite misunderstandings and differences, as long as there is empathy and growth. In sum, Wicked is more than just a musical; it’s a powerful narrative that speaks to our hearts about acceptance, individuality, and courage. It reminds me that people’s lives are rarely black and white and that each person has a unique story worth hearing. Wicked is a testament to the strength of friendship and the importance of not judging people for what they might look like on the outside.

Books have always been a welcome source of knowledge, inspiration, and guidance in my life. Whether I'm reading for school, for fun, or for relaxation, each and every book that I have read has offered me a new, unique perspective on life, helping me to shape my beliefs, values, and goals. Every book that I read opens up a new world of possibilities, and the blessing of having almost every book accessible to me at my public library is not something that I take lightly. Every book ranging from history to fantasy, and from theology to romance, has important information to offer to any reader willing to spend the time. One book that stands out as an influential part of my life, is Lies Young Women Believe by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth and Dannah Gresh. This book has not only provided me with spiritual insights, but has also profoundly influenced how I approach life in my pursuit of truth. This book digs deep into the lies that young women often encounter, such as false beliefs about their worth, identity, and purpose. Lies Young Women Believe emphasizes the importance of recognizing these lies as the work of the devil and encourages young women to seek the truth that can only be found in God's Word. This book has equipped me with the tools to combat all of the falsehoods that the devil tries to throw at women. It has also motivated me to anchor my identity and base my decisions off of Biblical truth rather than the ever-changing standards of the world. The lessons that I have learned from Lies Young Women Believe have significantly influenced my goals in life. One of my primary aspirations is to major in Biblical studies, a decision rooted in my desire to deepen my understanding of Scripture and equip myself to help other navigate the lies that can lead them astray. This book has reinforced my commitment to pursuing a degree in Biblical studies, and a life centered on God's truth. Books, such as this one, have encouraged me to know the importance of truth in my life, and have pushed me towards my goals in life. Additionally, this book has challenged me to be an example of truth for others. All women, young or old, struggle with the lies that swallow their lives. I hope to use my knowledge and experiences through reading, to guide others, helping them to discern truth from lies and to live out their God-given purpose. Beyond Lies Young Women Believe, the books that I've read have collectively taught me the value of knowledge. Whether through fiction or non-fiction, each story has offered me a new perspective in which to view the world and has contributed to much of my growth. From stories of characters who overcome adversity to theological works that challenge my understanding, reading has been a constant encouragement to me while continuing on my path of life. The books that I have read, have played a crucial role in shaping who I am today and who I aspire to become. They have taught me the importance of seeking truth, living with integrity, and setting goals that align with my faith. As I continue to read and learn, I am confident that the lessons I gain will continue to guide me toward a truth centered life.