Rachel Renkoski

To put it simply, I had a better start in life than most: Very supportive, educated, responsible and loving parents who stayed together, a stable home and an accessible church community, family that enjoyed each other's company and learned life lessons together. I was taught the value of getting up early, working hard, persevering and problem solving.

I grew up in a small town. Now, with age I can see the good things in that and still appreciate living new experiences. Knowing that you're only as good as your word and that trying to maintian humility can be wonderous tools in life. Love, fear, humor, and making mistakes are all part of life. I believe in freedom and the right to make choices about who we are and what we want to become; with those choices come responsibility and a lovely chain of reactions. Love like a child if you can. Forgive and forgive and forgive. Don't lose track of your real friends because they will be the ones that will be around when you really need them. Experience everything you can while we are here.