the kindness of the helpers

Today and days leading up to this one have proved to be days of reflection. They have been days of reflection because of the monumental events which are coming up in my life, namely my birthday and convocation. I have come to realize, through reflection that I would not be celebrating these milestones without the many people who have helped me get here. They take the form of family, friends, professors and other professional people. They have treated me like a precious and valuable species, one that is worth nurturing and protecting. They have guided me in my development from being a young and naive cat in the wild to a knowledgeable creature who can find her own way and help others find theirs. They have protected me from wild and uncontrollable elements of nature, and have often protected me from myself. I am very thankful for their kindness as I wouldn't have made it this far without them.