Growing up in a medically diverse family, I have been intimately familiar with the complexities and challenges of navigating health issues from a young age. My own experiences with a chronic condition, alongside my siblings’ ADHD, my brother’s dyslexia, and various other family members’ conditions including BPD, Tourette syndrome, Autism, and epilepsy, have given me a profound understanding of the medical world’s impact on individuals and families. This personal history has shaped my perspective on healthcare and fueled my aspiration to become a physician. Throughout my life, frequent visits to the doctor’s office became a norm. These experiences were a mix of both positive and negative encounters. When I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I initially felt overwhelmed and confused. The barrage of tests and changing diagnoses often left me feeling like I was on a relentless merry-go-round. More distressingly, some doctors dismissed my symptoms as being “all in my head,” which exacerbated my frustration and sense of isolation. This period of my life was marked by a deep sense of despair, compounded by a lack of understanding and empathy from some of the medical professionals I encountered. However, the turning point came when I finally met a doctor who profoundly impacted my journey. This doctor approached my situation with compassion and genuine care, listening to me not just as a patient but as a person. For the first time, I felt truly seen and heard. This empathetic approach was pivotal in breaking the cycle of depression and confusion that had enveloped me. It was through this doctor’s support and understanding that I began to feel hopeful and started on the path to improvement. This experience was transformative and became a defining moment in my life. It inspired me to pursue a career in medicine with the goal of becoming the kind of doctor who offers the same level of care and empathy that made such a difference for me. I want to ensure that no patient feels dismissed or overlooked in their time of need. I am committed to becoming a physician who listens deeply, understands the human aspect of illness, and provides not only medical expertise but also emotional support. In my career, I plan to make a difference by focusing on several key areas. Firstly, I will prioritize patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual feels valued and understood. I believe that the little differences, such as acknowledging a patient’s emotions and providing a compassionate presence, can significantly impact their experience and recovery. Secondly, I will advocate for thorough and thoughtful communication, working to build trust and understanding with my patients. I will strive to be a partner in their healthcare journey, offering support through both the medical and emotional challenges they face. Moreover, I intend to contribute to the medical field by sharing my experiences and insights into patient care. By emphasizing the importance of empathy and holistic care, I hope to influence how future generations of medical professionals approach their practice. I believe that even small acts of kindness and understanding can create a profound and lasting impact on individuals in crisis. In summary, my personal journey through the medical system has inspired me to become a doctor who not only addresses medical issues but also acknowledges the emotional and human aspects of patient care. My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients by being attentive, empathetic, and dedicated to their overall well-being.

Growing up in a medically diverse family, I have been intimately familiar with the complexities and challenges of navigating health issues from a young age. My own experiences with a chronic condition, alongside my siblings’ ADHD, my brother’s dyslexia, and various other family members’ conditions including BPD, Tourette syndrome, Autism, and epilepsy, have given me a profound understanding of the medical world’s impact on individuals and families. This personal history has shaped my perspective on healthcare and fueled my aspiration to become a physician. Throughout my life, frequent visits to the doctor’s office became a norm. These experiences were a mix of both positive and negative encounters. When I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I initially felt overwhelmed and confused. The barrage of tests and changing diagnoses often left me feeling like I was on a relentless merry-go-round. More distressingly, some doctors dismissed my symptoms as being “all in my head,” which exacerbated my frustration and sense of isolation. This period of my life was marked by a deep sense of despair, compounded by a lack of understanding and empathy from some of the medical professionals I encountered. However, the turning point came when I finally met a doctor who profoundly impacted my journey. This doctor approached my situation with compassion and genuine care, listening to me not just as a patient but as a person. For the first time, I felt truly seen and heard. This empathetic approach was pivotal in breaking the cycle of depression and confusion that had enveloped me. It was through this doctor’s support and understanding that I began to feel hopeful and started on the path to improvement. This experience was transformative and became a defining moment in my life. It inspired me to pursue a career in medicine with the goal of becoming the kind of doctor who offers the same level of care and empathy that made such a difference for me. I want to ensure that no patient feels dismissed or overlooked in their time of need. I am committed to becoming a physician who listens deeply, understands the human aspect of illness, and provides not only medical expertise but also emotional support. In my career, I plan to make a difference by focusing on several key areas. Firstly, I will prioritize patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual feels valued and understood. I believe that the little differences, such as acknowledging a patient’s emotions and providing a compassionate presence, can significantly impact their experience and recovery. Secondly, I will advocate for thorough and thoughtful communication, working to build trust and understanding with my patients. I will strive to be a partner in their healthcare journey, offering support through both the medical and emotional challenges they face. Moreover, I intend to contribute to the medical field by sharing my experiences and insights into patient care. By emphasizing the importance of empathy and holistic care, I hope to influence how future generations of medical professionals approach their practice. I believe that even small acts of kindness and understanding can create a profound and lasting impact on individuals in crisis. In summary, my personal journey through the medical system has inspired me to become a doctor who not only addresses medical issues but also acknowledges the emotional and human aspects of patient care. My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients by being attentive, empathetic, and dedicated to their overall well-being.

Growing up in a medically diverse family, I have been intimately familiar with the complexities and challenges of navigating health issues from a young age. My own experiences with a chronic condition, alongside my siblings’ ADHD, my brother’s dyslexia, and various other family members’ conditions including BPD, Tourette syndrome, Autism, and epilepsy, have given me a profound understanding of the medical world’s impact on individuals and families. This personal history has shaped my perspective on healthcare and fueled my aspiration to become a physician. Throughout my life, frequent visits to the doctor’s office became a norm. These experiences were a mix of both positive and negative encounters. When I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I initially felt overwhelmed and confused. The barrage of tests and changing diagnoses often left me feeling like I was on a relentless merry-go-round. More distressingly, some doctors dismissed my symptoms as being “all in my head,” which exacerbated my frustration and sense of isolation. This period of my life was marked by a deep sense of despair, compounded by a lack of understanding and empathy from some of the medical professionals I encountered. However, the turning point came when I finally met a doctor who profoundly impacted my journey. This doctor approached my situation with compassion and genuine care, listening to me not just as a patient but as a person. For the first time, I felt truly seen and heard. This empathetic approach was pivotal in breaking the cycle of depression and confusion that had enveloped me. It was through this doctor’s support and understanding that I began to feel hopeful and started on the path to improvement. This experience was transformative and became a defining moment in my life. It inspired me to pursue a career in medicine with the goal of becoming the kind of doctor who offers the same level of care and empathy that made such a difference for me. I want to ensure that no patient feels dismissed or overlooked in their time of need. I am committed to becoming a physician who listens deeply, understands the human aspect of illness, and provides not only medical expertise but also emotional support. In my career, I plan to make a difference by focusing on several key areas. Firstly, I will prioritize patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual feels valued and understood. I believe that the little differences, such as acknowledging a patient’s emotions and providing a compassionate presence, can significantly impact their experience and recovery. Secondly, I will advocate for thorough and thoughtful communication, working to build trust and understanding with my patients. I will strive to be a partner in their healthcare journey, offering support through both the medical and emotional challenges they face. Moreover, I intend to contribute to the medical field by sharing my experiences and insights into patient care. By emphasizing the importance of empathy and holistic care, I hope to influence how future generations of medical professionals approach their practice. I believe that even small acts of kindness and understanding can create a profound and lasting impact on individuals in crisis. In summary, my personal journey through the medical system has inspired me to become a doctor who not only addresses medical issues but also acknowledges the emotional and human aspects of patient care. My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients by being attentive, empathetic, and dedicated to their overall well-being.

Growing up in a medically diverse family, I have been intimately familiar with the complexities and challenges of navigating health issues from a young age. My own experiences with a chronic condition, alongside my siblings’ ADHD, my brother’s dyslexia, and various other family members’ conditions including BPD, Tourette syndrome, Autism, and epilepsy, have given me a profound understanding of the medical world’s impact on individuals and families. This personal history has shaped my perspective on healthcare and fueled my aspiration to become a doctor. Throughout my life, frequent visits to the doctor’s office became a norm. These experiences were a mix of both positive and negative encounters. When I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I initially felt overwhelmed and confused. The barrage of tests and changing diagnoses often left me feeling like I was on a relentless merry-go-round. More distressingly, some doctors dismissed my symptoms as being “all in my head,” which exacerbated my frustration and sense of isolation. This period of my life was marked by a deep sense of despair, compounded by a lack of understanding and empathy from some of the medical professionals I encountered. However, the turning point came when I finally met a doctor who profoundly impacted my journey. This doctor approached my situation with compassion and genuine care, listening to me not just as a patient but as a person. For the first time, I felt truly seen and heard. This empathetic approach was pivotal in breaking the cycle of depression and confusion that had enveloped me. It was through this doctor’s support and understanding that I began to feel hopeful and started on the path to improvement. This experience was transformative and became a defining moment in my life. It inspired me to pursue a career in medicine with the goal of becoming the kind of doctor who offers the same level of care and empathy that made such a difference for me. I want to ensure that no patient feels dismissed or overlooked in their time of need. I am committed to becoming a physician who listens deeply, understands the human aspect of illness, and provides not only medical expertise but also emotional support. In my career, I plan to make a difference by focusing on several key areas. Firstly, I will prioritize patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual feels valued and understood. I believe that the little differences, such as acknowledging a patient’s emotions and providing a compassionate presence, can significantly impact their experience and recovery. Secondly, I will advocate for thorough and thoughtful communication, working to build trust and understanding with my patients. I will strive to be a partner in their healthcare journey, offering support through both the medical and emotional challenges they face. Moreover, I intend to contribute to the medical field by sharing my experiences and insights into patient care. By emphasizing the importance of empathy and holistic care, I hope to influence how future generations of medical professionals approach their practice. I believe that even small acts of kindness and understanding can create a profound and lasting impact on individuals in crisis. In summary, my personal journey through the medical system has inspired me to become a doctor who not only addresses medical issues but also acknowledges the emotional and human aspects of patient care. My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients by being attentive, empathetic, and dedicated to their overall well-being.

My belief in myself has been the driving force behind my decision to pursue an esthetician trade school. As someone who is self-critical, I have become my own greatest motivator. Esthetics played a vital role during my teenage years, particularly as I battled with cystic acne. I would conceal my blemished skin by hiding behind my hair and avoided participating in class discussions, dreading the judgment of my peers. The mere thought of presenting in front of others paralyzed me. This struggle not only affected me physically but also took a toll on my mental and emotional well-being. I convinced myself that I was unlovable and deserving of mistreatment, choosing isolation as I believed nobody would genuinely want to engage in conversation with me. I allowed my insecurities to dictate my self-worth, tearing myself apart. One day, my mother noticed the drastic change in my once vibrant personality and realized that my self-esteem had crumbled. She took me to a dermatologist, marking a pivotal turning point in my life. Filled with both relief and trepidation, I approached the future with optimism. The dermatologist prescribed Accutane, a potent drug whose effects were not explained to me beforehand. Its harshness became evident as I personally experienced the side effects. Moreover, a previous injury I had sustained took twice as long to heal due to the medication. Cracked and scabbed lips invited uncomfortable questions, while embarrassing nosebleeds disrupted my classes, leaving me mortified. Compounded with these physical challenges, Accutane had a history of exacerbating depressive thoughts. I found myself distraught that this so-called "miracle pill" had turned into a nightmare. However, I soon discovered that patience yields the best results. As I endured the initial purging phase, I began witnessing significant improvements in my skin. Simultaneously, I learned preventive measures to manage the symptoms. A glimmer of hope emerged, an emotion that had been absent from my life for far too long. Several months later, my acne had completely cleared, and I felt like an entirely new person. Superficial as it may sound, my emotional well-being was directly impacted by my physical appearance. With newfound confidence, I embarked on an emotional healing journey to recover from the psychological damage inflicted by my cystic acne. During this transformative period, I made a firm commitment to help others navigate their own skin-related challenges. Rather than allowing them to endure the journey alone, I aspired to be a compassionate presence by their side, offering guidance and empathy. In February 2023, I set foot on the path to becoming a dermatologist. Eager to pursue dermatology as my ultimate goal, I enrolled in esthetician trade school, where I acquired the essential skills and knowledge to work in a dermatologist's office. There, I can assist individuals in overcoming their skin issues, providing the care and support that I wished I had received. Upon completing trade school, my educational journey will continue at the University of Tennessee, where I plan to major in Biology on the pre-med track. This academic pursuit will lay a solid foundation for achieving my dreams. Driven by a deep-rooted passion, I am determined to make a difference in people's lives, empowering them to feel confident in their own skin and supporting them on their transformative journeys. In conclusion, my personal experiences have ignited an unwavering desire within me to pursue a career in dermatology. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to further my education, enabling me to develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and compassion to make a lasting impact.

My belief in myself has been the driving force behind my decision to pursue an esthetician trade school. As someone who is self-critical, I have become my own greatest motivator. Esthetics played a vital role during my teenage years, particularly as I battled with cystic acne. I would conceal my blemished skin by hiding behind my hair and avoided participating in class discussions, dreading the judgment of my peers. The mere thought of presenting in front of others paralyzed me. This struggle not only affected me physically but also took a toll on my mental and emotional well-being. I convinced myself that I was unlovable and deserving of mistreatment, choosing isolation as I believed nobody would genuinely want to engage in conversation with me. I allowed my insecurities to dictate my self-worth, tearing myself apart. One day, my mother noticed the drastic change in my once vibrant personality and realized that my self-esteem had crumbled. She took me to a dermatologist, marking a pivotal turning point in my life. Filled with both relief and trepidation, I approached the future with optimism. The dermatologist prescribed Accutane, a potent drug whose effects were not explained to me beforehand. Its harshness became evident as I personally experienced the side effects. Moreover, a previous injury I had sustained took twice as long to heal due to the medication. Cracked and scabbed lips invited uncomfortable questions, while embarrassing nosebleeds disrupted my classes, leaving me mortified. Compounded with these physical challenges, Accutane had a history of exacerbating depressive thoughts. I found myself distraught that this so-called "miracle pill" had turned into a nightmare. However, I soon discovered that patience yields the best results. As I endured the initial purging phase, I began witnessing significant improvements in my skin. Simultaneously, I learned preventive measures to manage the symptoms. A glimmer of hope emerged, an emotion that had been absent from my life for far too long. Several months later, my acne had completely cleared, and I felt like an entirely new person. Superficial as it may sound, my emotional well-being was directly impacted by my physical appearance. With newfound confidence, I embarked on an emotional healing journey to recover from the psychological damage inflicted by my cystic acne. During this transformative period, I made a firm commitment to help others navigate their own skin-related challenges. Rather than allowing them to endure the journey alone, I aspired to be a compassionate presence by their side, offering guidance and empathy. In February 2023, I set foot on the path to becoming a dermatologist. Eager to pursue dermatology as my ultimate goal, I enrolled in esthetician trade school, where I acquired the essential skills and knowledge to work in a dermatologist's office. There, I can assist individuals in overcoming their skin issues, providing the care and support that I wished I had received. Upon completing trade school, my educational journey will continue at the University of Tennessee, where I plan to major in Biology on the pre-med track. This academic pursuit will lay a solid foundation for achieving my dreams. Driven by a deep-rooted passion, I am determined to make a difference in people's lives, empowering them to feel confident in their own skin and supporting them on their transformative journeys. In conclusion, my personal experiences have ignited an unwavering desire within me to pursue a career in dermatology. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to further my education, enabling me to develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and compassion to make a lasting impact.

My belief in myself has been the driving force behind my decision to pursue an esthetician trade school. As someone who is self-critical, I have become my own greatest motivator. Esthetics played a vital role during my teenage years, particularly as I battled with cystic acne. I would conceal my blemished skin by hiding behind my hair and avoided participating in class discussions, dreading the judgment of my peers. The mere thought of presenting in front of others paralyzed me. This struggle not only affected me physically but also took a toll on my mental and emotional well-being. I convinced myself that I was unlovable and deserving of mistreatment, choosing isolation as I believed nobody would genuinely want to engage in conversation with me. I allowed my insecurities to dictate my self-worth, tearing myself apart. One day, my mother noticed the drastic change in my once vibrant personality and realized that my self-esteem had crumbled. She took me to a dermatologist, marking a pivotal turning point in my life. Filled with both relief and trepidation, I approached the future with optimism. The dermatologist prescribed Accutane, a potent drug whose effects were not explained to me beforehand. Its harshness became evident as I personally experienced the side effects. Moreover, a previous injury I had sustained took twice as long to heal due to the medication. Cracked and scabbed lips invited uncomfortable questions, while embarrassing nosebleeds disrupted my classes, leaving me mortified. Compounded with these physical challenges, Accutane had a history of exacerbating depressive thoughts. I found myself distraught that this so-called "miracle pill" had turned into a nightmare. However, I soon discovered that patience yields the best results. As I endured the initial purging phase, I began witnessing significant improvements in my skin. Simultaneously, I learned preventive measures to manage the symptoms. A glimmer of hope emerged, an emotion that had been absent from my life for far too long. Several months later, my acne had completely cleared, and I felt like an entirely new person. Superficial as it may sound, my emotional well-being was directly impacted by my physical appearance. With newfound confidence, I embarked on an emotional healing journey to recover from the psychological damage inflicted by my cystic acne. During this transformative period, I made a firm commitment to help others navigate their own skin-related challenges. Rather than allowing them to endure the journey alone, I aspired to be a compassionate presence by their side, offering guidance and empathy. In February 2023, I set foot on the path to becoming a dermatologist. Eager to pursue dermatology as my ultimate goal, I enrolled in esthetician trade school, where I acquired the essential skills and knowledge to work in a dermatologist's office. There, I can assist individuals in overcoming their skin issues, providing the care and support that I wished I had received. Upon completing trade school, my educational journey will continue at the University of Tennessee, where I plan to major in Biology on the pre-med track. This academic pursuit will lay a solid foundation for achieving my dreams. Driven by a deep-rooted passion, I am determined to make a difference in people's lives, empowering them to feel confident in their own skin and supporting them on their transformative journeys. In conclusion, my personal experiences have ignited an unwavering desire within me to pursue a career in dermatology. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to further my education, enabling me to develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and compassion to make a lasting impact.

My belief in myself has been the driving force behind my decision to pursue an esthetician trade school. As someone who is self-critical, I have become my own greatest motivator. Esthetics played a vital role during my teenage years, particularly as I battled with cystic acne. I would conceal my blemished skin by hiding behind my hair and avoided participating in class discussions, dreading the judgment of my peers. The mere thought of presenting in front of others paralyzed me. This struggle not only affected me physically but also took a toll on my mental and emotional well-being. I convinced myself that I was unlovable and deserving of mistreatment, choosing isolation as I believed nobody would genuinely want to engage in conversation with me. I allowed my insecurities to dictate my self-worth, tearing myself apart. One day, my mother noticed the drastic change in my once vibrant personality and realized that my self-esteem had crumbled. She took me to a dermatologist, marking a pivotal turning point in my life. Filled with both relief and trepidation, I approached the future with optimism. The dermatologist prescribed Accutane, a potent drug whose effects were not explained to me beforehand. Its harshness became evident as I personally experienced the side effects. Moreover, a previous injury I had sustained took twice as long to heal due to the medication. Cracked and scabbed lips invited uncomfortable questions, while embarrassing nosebleeds disrupted my classes, leaving me mortified. Compounded with these physical challenges, Accutane had a history of exacerbating depressive thoughts. I found myself distraught that this so-called "miracle pill" had turned into a nightmare. However, I soon discovered that patience yields the best results. As I endured the initial purging phase, I began witnessing significant improvements in my skin. Simultaneously, I learned preventive measures to manage the symptoms. A glimmer of hope emerged, an emotion that had been absent from my life for far too long. Several months later, my acne had completely cleared, and I felt like an entirely new person. Superficial as it may sound, my emotional well-being was directly impacted by my physical appearance. With newfound confidence, I embarked on an emotional healing journey to recover from the psychological damage inflicted by my cystic acne. During this transformative period, I made a firm commitment to help others navigate their own skin-related challenges. Rather than allowing them to endure the journey alone, I aspired to be a compassionate presence by their side, offering guidance and empathy. In February 2023, I set foot on the path to becoming a dermatologist. Eager to pursue dermatology as my ultimate goal, I enrolled in esthetician trade school, where I acquired the essential skills and knowledge to work in a dermatologist's office. There, I can assist individuals in overcoming their skin issues, providing the care and support that I wished I had received. Upon completing trade school, my educational journey will continue at the University of Tennessee, where I plan to major in Biology on the pre-med track. This academic pursuit will lay a solid foundation for achieving my dreams. Driven by a deep-rooted passion, I am determined to make a difference in people's lives, empowering them to feel confident in their own skin and supporting them on their transformative journeys. In conclusion, my personal experiences have ignited an unwavering desire within me to pursue a career in dermatology. This scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity to further my education, enabling me to develop the necessary skills, knowledge, and compassion to make a lasting impact.

In the face of challenges, the soccer field has consistently served as my solace and sanctuary. From the time I took my first steps, soccer became an integral part of my life, surpassing even the bond I had with my own family. Within its boundaries, the world faded away, and nothing else mattered except the game unfolding before me. Through countless grueling practices and enduring hours of conditioning, a profound bond formed within my team that words cannot adequately capture. Together, we sweat, bled, and celebrated victories as one. In 2021, our collective efforts paid off, as we clinched the coveted title of ECRL regional champions. The lessons I gleaned from this experience extended far beyond the field, teaching me the value of unwavering commitment, even when the odds seemed insurmountable. I learned that diligence and a strong work ethic can tip the scales of victory in our favor. Moreover, I discovered the paramount importance of effective communication—whether it meant coordinating with teammates during intense plays or using words to uplift and motivate one another. Above all, I learned the art of setting up teammates for success, understanding that triumph stems not from the individual but from a cohesive unit working in unison. However, the soccer field, once my refuge, was unexpectedly ripped from my grasp. In 2022, a single play brought my career to a devastating halt. Tearing my right hip labrum, hip flexor, and suffering a stress fracture, I found myself broken physically and emotionally. As a center back, I was told that I could never compete at the level I had once achieved due to the vulnerability of my hip. Overwhelmed with despair, I grappled with the uncertainty of what lay ahead. How was I to cope when my coping mechanism itself required a doctor's clearance that would never materialize? Yet, from the depths of adversity, I embarked on a journey of mental rehabilitation. I shifted my perspective, viewing my injury not as a tragedy, but as a lesson—a poignant reminder to never take anything for granted. I learned to cherish and appreciate every aspect of life, for change is inevitable and brings with it new opportunities. I discovered that change, while often intimidating, merely ushers in fresh pathways for growth. After enduring a 14-month hiatus, I was finally granted clearance to run again. Determined to redefine the trajectory of my soccer career, I chose to become a referee. Although I could no longer compete on the field, my passion for the sport remained unwavering. This juncture marked a low point in my journey, but it also became the foundation for my ascent. My love for soccer will forever burn within me, and I aspire to give back to the community by imparting my knowledge and nurturing young talents through coaching. In conclusion, adversity may shake us to our core, but it is through resilience and perseverance that we find our true strength. Soccer has been the conduit for numerous lessons in my life, shaping me into a tenacious individual ready to surmount any obstacle. This scholarship would grant me the opportunity to continue my educational journey and contribute to society's betterment. With gratitude in my heart, I humbly request your support in furthering my dreams of using education and soccer to make a lasting impact on the world.

Numbness, The only emotion or lack there of, That can physically and emotionally Suck your soul into an abyss. A mindless zombie deprived of lifes ups and downs. A flatline of contentment. After all isn't a loveless life A pointless one.

Hello, I'm Emily Little, and my number one passion is helping others. Nothing in this world brings me more joy than lending a hand to someone in need. You never know what someone is going through, and something as simple as a smile can give them the courage to push on. As an able body human being, I've decided I want to pursue my love for helping others by becoming a dermatologist. Personally, I used to have skin issues. After receiving help from a dermatologist, I experienced a newfound confidence that allowed me to excel in areas of my life I had no idea were even affected by my skin. I wish to do that to others and give them the ability to experience the academic, social, and personal confidence I received after visiting a dermatologist. With the help of some scholarships, I can make my dream a reality, which is why I believe I am a perfect candidate.

It doesn't matter your ethnicity, language, age, or any other unique factors once a year, every year, the same song is sung. Yep, you guessed it, the happy birthday song. It is so beautiful in a world so divided as ours. Something as simple as a corny song a couple of verses long is something nobody can argue about. The song is so much more than a song, and the way its meaning travels between multitudes of cultures is astonishing. It brings excitement for the year to come, it radiates warmth when the people you care about bring their pitchy singing voices to screech the covenanted lyrics, and, my personal favorite, it brings gratitude. Gratitude that whatever highs or lows you experienced that year, when that one special day rolls around, the happy birthday song reminds you that you made it, that life moves on, and everything will be ok. So yes, as cheesy as it may be, the happy birthday song will forever have a special place in my heart, and I would never miss an opportunity to belt the little jingle to any of my lucky fellows on their special day.