How do we define ourselves? Do you define yourself by your nationality, profession and race or perhaps by your family ties? Everyone has many facets and to define yourself by any one of them is to do yourself an injustice. The “hats” you wear define who you are, and sometimes you may wear one or more hats depending on the situation and environment. In forty-five years I have worn many hats, many of them worn briefly and then fastened. aside on the shelf. The experiences gained through them become an integrated and permanent part of me, contributing to who I have become and who I will be in the future. Therefore, I must acknowledge all these hats, because without them I would be a very different person. Family is the beginning of everyone's journey in life and is probably the most important hat you wear. Everyone starts out as a daughter or a son. People are born with two parents, although some only have one parent to raise them. Either way, the lessons you learn from your parents will stay with you throughout your life. They are at the heart of who you are and who you will become. Even those who come from violent environments can learn valuable lessons to improve their lives and the lives of their children. No matter how good or bad your education is, you will always be their son or daughter. I was fortunate to have two caring parents to nurture and guide me, not only early in life, but long after I reached adulthood. These are the people I look up to, draw strength from, and look up to. I strive to model my life the same way they lived theirs, because they are honest and good people who deserve to be imitated. Long after they passed... middle of paper...... her relationship with her son blossomed into an adult friendship. He respected me as an adult and a friend, often taking my advice as readily as he gave it. His death in July 2008 was very hard for my family and me. The strength of her memory allowed me to persevere and stay strong for the rest of the family. I placed both of their hats in a special place, their memories and our experiences together remained with me forever. I have discussed many hats I have worn, but not all. Each is a fragment of my life, some larger than others. Separately, some may be the same hat you wear or have worn. People have many hats in common. When you add them up and combine all of their experiences, the result is a complex and unprecedented individual. Who am I? How would I define myself? I am the sum of all the “hats” in my life. I'm Ed McElroy.