Most people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These people have an appreciation, sensitivity, and a understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Heroes just don't happen. I never imagined loosing someone in my family in the most tragic way.  When my cousin was brutally murdered it changed everything around me. My family and I did not know how to react to this tragedy, we were not ready for something like this. I had to bring my family closer than ever, we all needed each other some way somehow. I knew as time passed by we couldn't dwell on the past anymore. Dwelling on the past just affected not only me but my family as well. I knew had to keep pushing forward no matter the situation I was in or how I felt. I knew my cousin was in a better place and I had no right to wish bad upon anyone that hurt my cousin. I've learned that forgiveness is not about being nice and kind, it's about letting go so you can claim the amazing future that awaits you. All my goals I have obtained since my cousin has passed has been for him. My cousin was a brotherly figure to me. I know that if he was here at this very moment he would be proud of everything I've done. Not only do I know becoming successful in my future will make my cousin proud but it will also make my whole family proud as well.  any struggle in life is just an obstacle to go through in life to mold you into the person you are now.