Ever since the end of 2019, or for some the beginning of 2020, our world changed. A virus spread throughout the world, killing millions in a pandemic. The United States saw some of the worst government issues that brought to light just how bad things really were, from the social economic classes to just plain bigotry. Other places around the world saw their own nightmares, from cutting off trades, economic disasters, and protests. The reason the past few years are a blur, simply, is because nearly every day there has been a new piece of big news that has been relevant to the rest of it. 2020-2021 have been an ongoing story that seems to be spilling over into the next year as well, as new Covid variants spread and new divides are made between people and their beliefs. It's safe to say at this point that if you didnt know where someone stood on a subject before 2020, you know where they stand now. Lines have been drawn, for better or worse.

Not all has been bad, however. During the pandemic, workers have fought for better pay, for unionization, and having their work places investigated for inappropriate practices. We've seen a surge in people, including myself, that were finally able to take off their masks, tired of playing the part of someone else, to become who they know they are. Isolation, ironically, has made people more free than ever.

I want to thank you all for being here through my own journey. I know I ask a lot sometimes, and I'm sorry for that. But I want you all to know, from the deepest part of my soul, I wouldnt be able to be here without your support. Even those who dont speak, those who simply just click a favorite, show support that means the world to me. Thank you all so much, I hope the next years start to look more normal for us all, and our passions grow once again.

-Auri