Abraham Lincoln once said, “It’s not the years in the life, it’s the life in the years.” Believe me when I say that no amount of pageant or interview preparation could have prepared me for the amazing journey this title has taken me on. From the outpouring of love and support from strangers, friends and loved ones, to the countless community volunteer hours I logged, my journey was a fulfilling and rewarding one.
First I collected all of the books and school supplies donated at the pageant last year and distributed them throughout my community. A couple of months later, I was able to collect household supplies from the students at my school and donate them to the troops and their families at the Fisher House in my hometown. Next, I made a trip to the capital to meet out governor. Throughout my reign I also participated in parades with my sister queens, helped out with the NAM staff and traveled 2,052.48 miles across country to compete at Nationals held in Anaheim, California. I cannot help but believe that my overall experience this year was God’s way of truly preparing me for the rest of my life’s journey.
It’s not the crown that defines you, but what you have inside that counts. Remember girls, ‘the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams,’ so dream on.
With Georgia on my mind,
Olivia Landrum
2013 Miss Georgia Jr. Teen
