When I was seven, my mom died of cancer. She was sick for only a year or so. Still you'd think that at the age of seven that someone could comprehend what death is. I didn't for a while. Then when I did, grief hit me like a truck. I was sad and depressed for years and nobody new it. My grades fell dramatically, my confidence disappeared, and suddenly I wasn't a child anymore. This experience forced me to grow up way too fast.

I suppose this makes everything seem terrible. But fortunately I have many up-sides to the story of my not-so-youth. I am seventeen now, and stronger than ever. Also, you hear all the time how horrible step-parents are, IT'S NOT TRUE! My step-mom is the most wonderful person. Sure it was hard at first, but now she's one of my best friends. I also gained back my confidence times ten. I am an actress and a writer now, and feel like I could conquer the world.

Yes, I still miss my mom, and even cry for her sometimes. But I have made her into my guardian angel, and my motivation.

I hope this helps someone somehow. Something similar helped me.