I’m a fan of Wicked because it’s so much more than just a musical and movie, it’s a story that makes you think, feel, and question everything you thought you knew. The first time I saw it, I was completely blown away. I had grown up watching The Wizard of Oz, where the Wicked Witch of the West was just the villain. When I had the chance to watch Wicked on broadway, it turned that on its head. Suddenly, she had a name, Elphaba, and a story that was powerful, heartbreaking, and inspiring. I saw someone misunderstood by the world, someone who was different and judged for it, but who still found the strength to stand up for what she believed in. What draws me in the most is the depth of the characters and how real they feel. Elphaba’s journey is emotional and empowering. She refuses to change who she is just to be accepted. That kind of courage is something I admire deeply. The relationship between Elphaba and Glinda is another reason I love this show. Their friendship is complicated, messy, and beautiful. Watching them grow together, challenge each other, and ultimately change one another for the better, it feels incredibly human. “For Good” never fails to make me tear up because it reminds me of the people in my life who’ve shaped me, even if our paths have diverged. And the music, oh, the music. Stephen Schwartz’s score is unforgettable. “Defying Gravity” gives me chills every time I hear it. It’s a moment of pure liberation. It's about refusing to be limited by others' expectations and finally rising above it all. That message really resonates with me, especially when I’ve felt boxed in or misunderstood. I also love how Wicked challenges the idea of good versus evil. It shows how easy it is for people in power to control a narrative, and how dangerous it can be to judge someone without truly knowing them. There’s something incredibly powerful about a show that entertains while also encouraging empathy, self-reflection, and critical thinking. This broadway show, now movie, speaks to my heart every time I see or listen to it. It’s a story of strength, friendship, and finding your place in a world that doesn’t always understand you, and that’s why I’ll always be a fan.

When I think of a father figure, I immediately think of my dad. He has been a constant source of love, guidance, and strength in my life. What makes him so special is not just what he does, but who he is—protective, thoughtful, and incredibly loving. He is the kind of person who shows up for his family, no matter what, and I feel incredibly lucky to call him my dad. One of the things I admire most about him is how protective he is. He makes sure my family and I always feel safe, supported, and heard. Whether it’s walking me through a tough situation or just checking in after a long day, his presence brings me a sense of calm and reassurance. He’s always been someone I could count on, and that kind of consistency is something I deeply value. He’s also one of the most thoughtful people I know. He pays attention to the little things, remembering my favorite snacks, sending me a funny meme just to make me smile, or planning a spontaneous family outing when he senses we all need a break. He listens when I talk, really listens, and gives advice that’s rooted in both experience and heart. His thoughtfulness has shaped the way I treat others and taught me to lead with empathy. But what I’m most grateful for is the way he’s empowered me to be a strong, confident woman. My dad has never tried to put limits on what I can do or who I can be. Instead, he has encouraged me to go after my goals, speak up for myself, and stand tall even when things feel overwhelming. He believes in me, sometimes even more than I believe in myself, and that belief has helped me grow into someone who isn’t afraid to take up space in the world. Beyond all of this, he’s just fun to be around. He loves the beach, and some of my favorite memories are the ones we’ve made there, watching the waves, collecting seashells, and laughing as we get caught in the rain. He also has a passion for exploring new places with our family. Whether it’s a weekend road trip or a big vacation, he’s always planning new adventures that bring us closer together. Another thing that makes him special is how handy he is. He can fix almost anything and is always ready to jump into a project around the house. It’s a small thing on the surface, but it reflects something deeper about him, his willingness to help, to build, to take care of the people and things he loves. My dad is more than just a father figure, he’s my role model. He’s taught me how to be kind, brave, and grounded, and he’s done it all by simply being himself. I’ll carry his lessons with me for the rest of my life.