Have you ever wanted to…write a letter to five people who have positively influenced your life?

A new year brings new experiences, friendships, and relationships to everyone’s life. As a little 2013 wrap-up, I’ve decided to pick up a pen and hand write (yes, you heard that correctly) a letter to five people who have had a great influence in my life. I wrote a letter to my mom, my best friend, an old coach, my grandparents, and a Haitian man who changed my life.

It was an incredible feeling to express my gratitude to each of these individuals. Because I have so many people surrounding me in my life, it was actually hard to pick five. You can never really tell someone enough that they have influenced you in a positive way.

Reflecting back on each of the prominent characters in my life brought me a huge sense of happiness. If someone has changed your life for the better, tell them. It doesn’t have to be a handwritten letter or anything fancy, but acknowledging someone for impacting you will, in turn, impact them.

I cannot wait to mail the five letters I wrote in hopes of bringing a smile to their faces. People in our life will come and go, but it’s important to recognize those who have not only stayed, but made a difference.

Hanna LeBuhn is a Lifestyles Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.