Dear 2010,

To be completely honest, you sucked for the first few months. When you arrived, I was very unhappy with you. All that I had achieved in 2009 was seemingly undone by your presence and I resented you for it. That job I landed? Terrible and soon to be gone. That Master's degree? Seemingly useless. It wasn't until the springtime that I realized that you had more in store for me than I previously thought.

You were the year that taught me to get up when I fall. Before you, I had never fallen so far. I didn't know what it was like to lose as much as I did. I didn't know what it was to go into a situation hoping to survive rather than expecting to excel. You were a humbling year for a very proud person, and while at once I hated you for it, now I am thankful.

You were the year that brought me to children that needed and wanted my help. You brought me to schools that didn't take what I teach for granted and you proved that not all administrations are as heartless and soulless as my ex-school. You helped me stay on the right path and even pursue more knowledge in it.

You were the year I found my place. I learned who to love, who to trust, and who to leave behind. I learned that I am both a beautiful individual and half of something incredible. And now that I've found how helpful you were to me, you need to go. Funny how that works, 2010.

So I bid you farewell. I wish you happiness in further wisdom within my memories and hope the lessons you taught me remain in my mind in 2011 and beyond.

Sincerely, Your Favorite Work in Progress,

RG