There are many aspects to human beings and human behavior, it takes only yourself to seek out what is most valuable. My best quality that I see in myself is my loyalty. Loyalty is an important characteristic because it is used throughout all aspects of life. You see it in relationships, work, education, and self love. When you are completely loyal to yourself, you see that there is more to others as well. By taking care of yourself, you are also taking care of those around you. I began my journey of loyalty to myself only recently. I believe that if I focus on myself and stay working towards myself and my goals, I am set for my future endeavors. Throughout my life, I have so many plans. I want to be successful in my studies, my future career, my relationships, and I want to have my own family one day. Loyalty to my studies is what will keep me on the path to my ultimate goals. I also believe that this quality is what allows for motivation, even in times of trouble. In my future career, loyalty will allow me to be the best employee or boss that I could be for the company. When it comes to relationships, I believe that your family is chosen. When I choose who I want to be involved with, they are people who I am fully loyal to and hope for that trait to be reciprocated. I believe that loyalty is important in relationships because it allows for there to be trust. When I make my future family, I want to do everything I can in my power to ensure my children’s success. I want to pay attention to any issues or concerns that could arise in these relationships. Loyalty is one pillar of characteristics that allow for success in life. I want to make sure that I keep it close to me throughout my journey and to not become corrupt. There are many other special and important qualities or values in life, but loyalty is one that I can recognize within myself as well as others.

When the Black Lives Matter Movement came into fruition, it allowed me to take a look at myself and assess how I am contributing to the problem. I saw my white skin and low, middle-class status and wondered why I was considered privileged in comparison to people of color whose families were more successful than mine. However, that view changed as I began to see how others don’t view me as an equal with people of color. I have seen many racists appear on my timelines. I realized that I was blissfully unaware of the inequality that was still taking place.

Act like you have no money and it will build over time.

Many people say, “I live to serve” in regard to working a job for the rest of your life. When I think of living to serve, I think of helping my family, friends, and neighbors. I strive to make the lives around me just a little bit easier. One act of service that occurs more than most is helping my grandmother with groceries. My grandmother is getting older and it affects how well she can take care of my family. Helping her carry in heavy grocery bags, or running errands for her, is the least I can do to show my appreciation. Another act of service would be for my friends. I am a great listener and want my friends to be okay. If giving them a ride or paying for a quick meal would make their lives a little easier, I am happy to do so. By being there to listen or provide, I am acting of service to them. Finally, my neighbors are also people who may need some help from time to time. If I could walk their dogs, feed their dogs, or bring in their mail just to be a big help, I would. Being a helpful person is not for selfish reasons, it’s not to feel good about yourself. Performing acts of service is truly selfless and beautiful. Being able to see the, maybe minor, improvements in their lives is a great thing.