I have a very special friend that is close to my heart, and her name is Brooke Allston. Brooke is mentally challenged, and even though she has D.O.W.N.S. Syndrome, she's the most dedicated and disciplined person I know. Some of the ways that I find Brooke so dedicated are in her weekly phone calls, in her job, and in her commitment to God.

One of the ways Brooke is dedicated is in her friendships. Brooke has a list of friends that she calls at least twice a week. There are probably about five girls on this list, including myself. Brooke calls to find out how we're doing and to make sure that our day is going great.

Another way Brooke is so dedicated is in her work atmosphere. I'm sure the McDonalds on Colonial is running smoothly. Are you wondering why that might be? If you guessed because Brooke works there, you're absolutely correct. Brooke is always at work right on time, if not early. She puts in 110 percent, and she always carries a smile on her rosy-cheeked face. She would rather eat dirt than miss a day at work. I know the ketchup holders are always full when Brooke is working.

One of the biggest ways Brooke's devotion shines through is in her commitment to God. She has been through so many hard times in her life that I won't even begin to count. Brooke has every reason to be mad at the world and mad at God, but that just simply isn't the case. She loves God more than anything in this world, and it shows too. Brooke has such a child-like faith, and that's what I love the most about her.

I have just stated only three examples of Brooke's devotion and dedication. Brooke continues to show me how I should act day in and day out. If she doesn't let D.O.W.N.S. Syndrome stop her, than there's really no excuse for me not to give it my all.