One of the biggest reasons this recent bad news is hitting me so hard is the fact that I never let these people know what kind of an impact they had on my life, and I never got to thank them for it.

I can't believe how much I take for granted this kind of thing! All these people who have impacted or are impacting my life, and I don't even acknowledge it.

From the time I was old enough to socialize with people, I have. My parents have allowed me to take part in all kinds of things, from church-based activities, clear up through going out with friends just to have fun. In the process, I've made lots of contacts, met lots of people, and established lots of relationships. Some of these relationships have appeared to be "bad" on the surface, but I've gained a lot of invaluable life experience from them. The many other relationships that would appear to be "good" have just kinda been blown off.

Regardless, I want to thank everyone who reads this for the impact you have had on my life. Whether I call you an enemy, a friend, or just an acquaintance, you've given me a lot of useful material to help me mature and to prepare me for the future. Thank you.

Family: You're the best. You've been by me from day #1, through thick and thin. I love you guys and you mean the world to me. Thank you for being there. Thank you for supporting me. Thank you for helping me grow.

Close Friends: You guys are equally as important in my life. When there's been problems, I've been able to count on you to listen. When I feel like just shooting the breeze, you've been there as well. Even when I treat you guys like crap, you've stuck by my side. Thank you.

Internet Friends: What can I say? You guys are all addicted to the internet, so even late at night you're there. You put up with my rants, you put up with my stupid jokes, and you put up with my rambling. You're awesome. Thank you.

Co-Workers: I spend more time with you guys than I do my own family, these days! You're all hard workers, and you put up with my crap on a daily basis. You're always there when I need to talk, you're there when I need to blow off steam, and you're there when I ask if it's time to go home yet. Even though I'm anxious for 6:00 to roll around, I love spending time with you guys. Thank you.

Enemies: You suck. You've treated me like crap, screwed me over, and/or royally pissed me off. Regardless, you've helped me learn how to deal with the crap of life. Thank you. Now go away.

Everyone Else: If I missed you, I'm sorry. You're equally as important to my life, and I appreciate the support you've given me, the interest you've taken in the happenings of my life, and the time I've been able to spend with you. Thank you.

Now, don't go getting the idea that I'm done with my life. Heck, I'm barely getting started! I expect every one of you to stick around and help me get through it. I will try to do the same. We need each other to get through this life, so let's do it! Stick around, because you're in for one heck of a ride!