TCT’s The Countless Thanks 2019: Molly Dixon

My mom and dad—for being the most contrasting, yet harmonious duo

I am so thankful to have such a great pair of people to guide me through life. When you work together, you are always able to make me feel better, and I greatly appreciate the fact that you are both there whenever I need you.

Mom, you can always tell when I’ve had an off day and never refrain from asking me about it. I may not always want to talk, but just having someone there to acknowledge my feelings makes me feel better instantly. Any time I have an issue, you give me your utmost support, even when I am most definitely wrong—which is a lot. I appreciate all that you have done for me in my life, and I cherish the memories that I have with you.

Dad, without you my personality would be completely different. I am so glad that I have someone in my life with such an impactful and vivacious spirit. Whenever you are around, I find things much funnier and am able to enjoy myself more. I appreciate your energy so greatly, and although we make fun of one another constantly, I know you always have my back. You never fail to bring a smile to my face, and you never fail to hug me when I’m sad. You tell me to look at both sides of my problems, and although I may hate your neutrality at times, it has helped me resolve many of my issues.

Together, you help me understand life emotionally and logically. I love you both dearly and always will.

Sammie Wing—for making me laugh in situations where I definitely shouldn’t be laughing

I used to think that the chances of me finding a friend that understands me and makes me laugh without trying were about as low as meeting a person who is ginger and Asian. But you’re both of those things. I am so thankful to have found someone who I can converse with without uttering a single word. I love that you know what joke I am going to make before I even say it, but you laugh anyway. I can’t imagine life without hearing your awful British accent, and I can’t “fank yew” enough for the laughs that you evoke from me effortlessly. I absolutely love you, and I can’t wait to continue high school with you.

Remmie Gavle and Will Becker—for regularly improving my day

Whenever I walk into fourth hour in a bad mood, I always come out feeling better, and you guys are the reason. You form one of my favorite combinations of people. You’re both so easygoing and weird; I fit right in. I am so thankful to have you guys there to get me through Spanish with entertaining stories about Superman ice cream and interesting inquiries about frogs.

Will, you are probably the greatest guy friend I’ve ever had. I like that I can make fun of you relentlessly and not feel bad. I can always count on you to give it back. A friendship that is based on pictures of cats—most importantly Kyle—is fun, and I’m glad I can have that friendship with you. Thanks for keeping me entertained and getting me through the end of the school day.

Rem, I can’t explain your effect on others. You radiate positive energy, and I am so lucky that I am able to experience that energy every single day. You have such a big heart, and I love talking to you about any dumb topic extensively. You are truly one of the best friends I’ve ever had, and I’m so thankful to have you in my life.

Mr. Labenz—for enforcing upon me a sweet nickname and genuinely caring about my understanding of APUSH

I wish I had a cool radio voice that you could read this in, but sadly, I don’t. I was a bit nervous about taking APUSH this year, but your straightforward approach to educating has soothed my nerves. You are one of the most interesting teachers I’ve had, and I like that you always make sure that your students understand the importance of what you’re teaching. I appreciate your humor as well, and I can always count on you to help me learn something new every day. I love being Dolly, and I’m extremely thankful to have such an incredible person educate me.

Katie Hoffman—for monkeying around with me

You have done so much for me this year. Whenever I’m hyper and can’t fall asleep at midnight, you’re always there to calm me down. If I ever need to talk about something, you’re there for me. You’re the first person I text when something happens, and I always make sure to only send one because I know how you feel about more than two texts in a row.

When I first met you, I didn’t believe you. You were too sweet to be real. That’s why you’re such a marvel; you are genuine. I can’t thank you enough for being there for me and for helping out other people—even when you are feeling down. You are so beautiful inside and out, and I love being around you.

Joe Robertson—for possessing my favorite smile in the whole world

I genuinely adore every moment with you, and I enjoy your company even when you’re wearing your old, decaying tennis shoes and your only pair of jeans. Life is so much better when you’re around, and you manage to make me feel like nothing else matters when you’re near me. Of all of your admirable attributes, my favorite is your smile. Various intangible traits like your kindness are honorable competitors, and I hope you don’t think I’m vain for choosing a physical trait as my favorite thing about you, but I can’t help it. Every time you smile, you exude happiness; I feel so successful anytime I am the reason behind your glowing grin. You never fail to ask me how I’m doing, and I am so thankful to have your positivity help me through life. Our memories are some of the best ones that I have, and I know that as time passes we will make even more. Usually, I neglect to acknowledge how much you do for me, but deep down I am so thankful for your precious presence in my life.