I've learned that you can do something in an instant that will bring heartache for life.

I've learned that I am responsible for what I do.

I've learned it's ok to cry.

I've learned that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done regardless of the circumstances.

I've learned that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you are down will be the ones to help you get back up.

I've learned that sometimes when I am angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.

I've learned that life isn't always fair.

I've learned that I can become the instrument through which change can take place in my family and my life.

I've learned that your family won't always be there for you but people you aren't related to can take care of you and love and teach you to trust people again.

I've learned that it is ok to grieve and feel the pain of my losses.

I've learned that my life can be drastically changed in a moment's notice by people who don't even know me.

I've learned that no matter how good a friend is, he/she is going to hurt you every once in a while and you must learn to forgive them.