Minecraft holds one of those special places in my heart since its release on PlayStation 4 in 2013. The game was released near Christmas and I was lucky enough to get Minecraft and a PS4 for my birthday and Christmas. The first thing I always made sure to do was to play the tutorial world with my brother until we decided it was too hard and went into creative mode to cheat our way past it. I believe that the strongest influential power that Minecraft possesses over people is the power of nostalgia. When I think of Minecraft, I think of cool summer days with the windows wide open and the breeze from the door flowing in. I remember exploring the overworld with my brother on split screen and hating how compressed the screen looked. The world back then was much simpler since I was so young and careless, and how I never had to worry about things like tuition, stability, making hot meals, and only having to worry about one page of homework. This is similar to most peoples fond memories of Minecraft, not the new updates rolling in but the old versions where there were rumors of Herobrine hiding in your world and Pink Sheep was one of the coolest YouTubers at that time. Minecraft itself has transformed from a simple game into a vessel where people now can reexperience nostalgia and the memories of a simple childhood. This aspect of Minecraft to me is why it will always have a special place in my heart. Not because of any cool features or mobs but because the fond memories I made playing the game in a time I will always cherish.

In late 2023, I lost my younger brother when he tragically died in a car crash. This devastating event took away a significant part of my life, leaving a void that feels impossible to fill. My brother had an immense love for animals, and his dream was to become a veterinarian. Although he often shared this aspiration with me, I never fully understood the depth of his passion while he was alive. His passing forced me to reflect on his dreams and passions, and I realized just how much animals meant to him. It was then that I decided to honor his memory by taking up his cause. In order to cope with his passing I helped out at the pound, pretending he would walk in and hoping he was somehow still alive. While taking care of street animals, I have discovered the profound impact this work can have. During one of my duties I had found a energetic puppy that played with the other dogs often. I also began to play with the dog. Soon I felt less and less depressed and the dog might've saved my life that same day. I ended up adopting the puppy and introduced it to my brothers older dogs. Also sooner or later they too sprung back to life and it was then were I realized how significant animals are to us. These animals, once neglected and abandoned, become beloved family members, bringing joy and companionship to their new owners. Through this process, I feel a connection to my brother, as if I am continuing his mission and keeping his spirit alive. Every day, I am reminded of my brother's dream and the importance of kindness and empathy towards all living beings. By caring for these animals, I am not only preserving his memory but also making a positive difference in the world, one stray at a time.