7th grade

In the 7th grade Every teacher picked two students from their class to receive an award.

I got one from my Language Arts teacher
This is what was written on the back:
"Erika, I've said it before and I will say it again- you are so unique. I hope that you realize how wonderful it is to be an original voice and thinker in our society of followers. I have truly enjoyed having you as a 7th grader and know you will go on to have an amazing life. keep creating, keep dreaming, and keep reading. thank you for being a shining light"

I found this in my room today, and I sat on the edge of my bed and just cried.
What happenned to me?
I went to high school and college and I lost my light. I became a follower. I stopped creating, and dreaming and I started shopping and dating. How can you lose all the substance you had as a 12 year old when You've just turned 22?

What happenned to me this summer?
How did I lose my way?
I won't let life get the best of me.
I'm better than that