Genre: Forum

Life has changed so much in a year. I've come so so far that it's quite unbelievable, I feel like I've lept into the real world and suddenly it's not as bad as it all once seemed. I've done so much for myself, grown so much as a person, and I'm the happiest I've ever been. My first year at Uni has been amazing. It wasn't easy to begin with, but some amazing friends helped me to get through it. I challanged myself in ways I never thought I would. I've a large collection of friends now, all willing me on and supporting me through thick and thin. I've done more for other people, things which have helped me as well as them. I've had so much fun doing it as well. Building gardens, doing parades, helping at Open Days, Street collections, and the countless charity events at the Union. It's all been so much fun. I've been awarded for my commitment, I've clocked up my volunteering hours and been awarded for that too. I have an amazing boyfriend now. He treats me like an angel.. he's so understanding of everything. He's helped make me happy. I'm healthier than I've been in a long time too. I'm happy with my weight now and damn it feels good. For once I can say "I look good, I feel good, Everything is good." and mean it. I've moved on from RYL now. I no longer feel the need to come on here for support. I come on here to read general posts, and even then I rarely reply. It's been a great support when I have needed it, but I feel I've moved on now. I hope I've managed to give a little bit back in the 4 years that I've been here, but I guess I'll never really know. Not only have I moved on from RYL, I've moved on in my life.. the past IS behind me now. Last week I ripped up all my old diaries and threw them out. It's all gone now and it feels like there's a weight been lifted from my shoulders. RYL has been a big part of my life, and some of the people I've met through here I will never forget. They've become friends who I wish to keep for life. But I guess we all have to move on at some point, and for me, this is it. But I don't believe in saying Goodbye, because more than likely I'll still be around, and i'll still speak to some of you.. so this isn't a goodbye, more of a See you later. Thank-you to RYL, all the staff and most importantly all the members who have helped me through the difficult times. its so good to hear things are better for you. The even better part is that you have gotten to a stage in your life where you don't need ryl i am happy things are going well and i hope they continue to keep getting better for you. if you ever need us we are here though. See you soooooon :) I'm so glad to read this from you - I know you would've never believed me if I'd said you would've written something like this in a few months time last year so YAYYYYY. Take care of yourself Stephaaaannie. Loveyou. xx "Be nice. Think happy thoughts. Champion silver linings. Love all things (not just cute things like babies and kittens) & when you do love - love like they do in power ballads (you know like on a cliff with the wind in your hair and your eyes shut, knowing you'll never know love like this). Watch out for dog poo. Smile at people - even grumpy ones. Remember anything is possible & whatever you do always try to look on the bright side."