“I used to be really timid, really shy. I used to say yes to everything and be everybody’s go-to, and I was sacrificing my own happiness. As I got older, I just got sick of it. I’m not shy. I talk to everybody.”

“I had a really strict, crazy upbringing. I was always terrified to get to know people, always worrying I’d say the wrong things. But then I got into college, and I became myself. I was able to live for myself rather than living to please my family.”

“I am a mom and a wife and a teacher and a coach. Those are what people know me as.”

“I’ve had one best friend since childhood. She’s a townie, as well. I’ve known her since middle school. She and I will always make plans, then we’ll text each other and ask if we want to reschedule. She’ll say, ‘I know you’ll understand. I just don’t feel like people tonight.’”

“I want to continue to grow who I am. I want to do what’s good for my soul and my well-being. I want to make sure that for the people around, I rub off in the right way.”