16 years ago on this day, I graduated from high school.
I will spare you the sordid details of how I've not quite reached the lofty heights I'd envisioned at that time.
What I will tell you is that never in my wildest imaginings I'd fight terminal illness and win, or that I'd return to academia where my heart and spirits soar, or that one day I would really and truly live without being menaced by the dysfunction of my family's specter.
Today is a day to celebrate many victories.
While I have accomplished much; there is much yet waiting to be accomplished.
I believe I am up to that task indeed.