There is an unending world of opinions on the importance of art. Although those opinions are loud at times, they will never be able to errase my experience with art and the impact that it has had on my life. Growing up, I had the good fortune of having access to well written and beautifully illustrated books. Those books and pictures rapidly became my joy and inspiration. As a child I became an explorer, searching for those worlds buried in the shelves of the library, waiting for my arrival. Blossoming from these hours of reading and studying picture books, sprouted my love for creating illustrations. Although graphic design may be the most practical route to take as a modern day artist, I couldn't let the possibility of a career as an illustrator pass me by. As I pondered how I could utilize my passion for pictures, my mind was taken back to some of the first art I ever encountered as a child. I want nothing more than to give an opportunity to the next generations to be able to learn and grow through reading picture books. These stories captured in color allow children of all ages to gain perspective and knowledge. They open a child's world to the beauty of imagination and the freedom that knowledge can give. I look forward to the day that my art that can positively influence a young persons life. The day that a story or idea will cause them to look at the world differently, and hopefully with more joy. Thank you for your generous offer and consideration.

What is the wisest thing you have ever heard? As I sat up one night pondering this question I realized that I had heard many wise things from various people. Yet the wisest thing I have ever heard is not in fact what I heard, but what I didn’t hear. From the personal turmoil in an individuals life to the turmoil found in a government agency, there is one thing in common. When placed in a situation that challenges ones patience people are more likely than not, to lose their patience entirely. It is far from uncommon for an individuals patience to be challenged in a negative way, and for that individual to not lose their patience. Thus, the wisest thing I’ve ever heard is the lack of something. The lack is the lack of a response to a disrespectful, degrading, or vicious comment undeservedly given. Nothing matches the power that the refusal to acknowledge a negative comment carries upon its shoulders. Although silence is not a wise phrase or sentence, it can still be full of wisdom that is very impactful. The power of words will never have the capability to match the power of rightly time and utterly deep silence.

Over the course of many thrilling adventures, heartbreaking tales of brokenness, and stories filled with the simplest joys of life I have fallen head over heals with reading. Although pleasure has filled my soul countless times whilst reading, one book has taken my heart in its pages and stolen it. The Book Thief is the story of a young girl who is torn away from her family in only the brutal manner that death could muster, and thrust into a seemingly cold hard shell of a world. With her little heart breaking into bits, she turns to a comfort not all are familiar with. Within the walls of the pages and the world of the words her heart flutters back to life in a pitiful but determined manner. She is rescued by an unlikely companion yet is befriended by death. It is in this power struggle that she finds herself fighting through. As a reader it is difficult for me to favor a book over so many other masterpieces yet at the same time I cannot deny the truthfulness and love that The Book Thief speaks throughout its pages. This book allows ones emotions to fully develop alongside the character and guided me on a hopeful journey through one of the most hopeless times in recent history. Undeniably, I feel as though I have met this young girl within the pages, that I have fought her battles alongside her, and suffered just as terribly as when she has suffered. It has changed my perspective on life and caused me to be more truthful. The Book Thief is my favorite book because it is written in a shockingly truthful way.

No other story has struck the same chord in my heart as that of the life of George Washington. Valiant tales of glory aside, the strength of one who so brazenly fought for freedom is enough to fill young minds with fantastical ideas of war and power. Yet, the legacy that came about to remember Washington is lacking in these incorrectly praised fantastical ideas of war and power. Servanthood, humility, and sacrifice are the attributes that cause me to admire Washington. As a respected and highly glorified man, Washington was fully capable of twisting his position in a manner that would favor his well-being over others. Despite this, it has been carried throughout history that he was a servant leader. In many situations where it would have been socially acceptable for a commander-in-chief to instruct the work from atop his steed, Washington instead dismounted and assisted the men in their labor. It is also the apparent humility of Washington, that multitudes of leaders have failed to submit to, that cause him to be admirable. Although, as any other man, Washington's life was filled with mistakes, his life achievement's are that of large stature. In regards to glory, Washington hardly boasted or gloated but did mark God as the true Savior and miracle worker of the American story. Last of all is the fact that Washington not only risked his life, but ultimately sacrificed his entire life for the sake of the country. It is known that his hearts desire was not to be an influential politician, general, or president, but to lead a simple life. Washington did not chase after his hearts personal desires but let truth lead him into his position. Many individuals from history are remarkable and worthy of admiration. George Washington is one of these people.

From groups that communicate emergencies overseas to handheld devices designed merely for entertainment to appliances for daily utilitarian uses, technology has changed it all. If you were born after 2000, it is most likely that you have heard your parents comment on the destructive nature of technology. It is highly likely that without new technology most youths would feel left out from friend groups, culture, and quite possibly school activities. Therefore, it is undebatable that technology has left a world changing mark on the 21st century. It is up to our generation how we will shape the beginning of this technology focused society. Without a doubt, technology is a powerful force. It is able to draw unsuspecting minds into a lie. It is able to free enslaved minds. It is a remarkable vicious and breathtaking tool. For myself, technology has been a window into the worlds endless opinions, beauties, and secrets. As I thought about the prompt more, I realized that most of the goodness I have experienced in my life has been influenced by the convenience of technology. I can remember countless fundraisers, charity events, and church services that were made possible because of the reach that technology has. These would not have had nearly as much influence without the use of technology. Almost one year ago I leveraged the vast reach and undeniable convenience of technology by exploring the possibilities of an online business. Through Etsy, Instagram, and eventually TickTock I have worked on my small business and enjoyed being a part of peoples lives that without technology I never would have met. Over these past 11 months my eyes have been opened to the incredible possibilities that a platform online provides. My heart is now set on a career where I can share my art online and inspire people outside of my small community. I look forward to this next year because I have a unique opportunity. It is my heart that Technology and entrepreneurship go hand-in-hand and should be used in constructive, honoring, and respectful ways. But, is using technology in a constructive, honoring, and respectful way enough to improve the world? Perhaps it is not enough, but it is an important factor. Through communicating to the younger generations online that respect and honor our vital aspects of a good society the world is on its way down a path to a better future. Technology is a powerful tool. Through combining entrepreneurship with technology I hope to be a part of improving our worlds future.