Dear Parents:

Mom: 

All my life you have been a superhero to me, working hard to make everything come together. There was nothing that you couldn’t do in my eyes. But these last few years have been hard for me. Being older and understanding more about life has brought me to witness what you actually go through. And I can’t believe how strong you are. But more importantly, now I know you also have a weak side. You have become human to me, which may be more extraordinary than the superhero. I can see the things that hurt you, that make you feel insecure, that break you down, and that crush your spirits. Those are some of the hardest things to see. So now I only want to protect you from the pain, like you did for me for so many years. And if I could do anything to take it all away I would. You have always been able to make me feel better and to make me feel safe and I cherish you. We have had some rough patches in the last few years, but nothing is stronger than our bond. And although I may not agree with everything you do or everything you say, I will always love you and support you and I’m always in your corner. You are amazing, you have grown and changed so much and I’m proud of you. You are a beautiful, strong, wise, and charismatic woman and I’m proud to say I get all of my best features from you. Thank you and I love you!

Dad:

Wow, just to witness the change in our relationship in the last few years is a wonderment in itself. I have to say that I’m happy be in this new place. The years without you harbored a void in me that I’ve never realized before. But in the last few years I’ve felt a connection that may have always been present but not really realized. And I have to say I really have enjoyed getting to know you all over again. I must admit that some of the most interesting conversations that I’ve ever had in life were with you and it’s clear that you and I are more similar than one would think. I know I have been extremely difficult at times, but I do honestly respect and appreciate all that you are. You are a truly caring provider and protector for your family and I am honored to be your daughter. I’m happy that I’m not missing out on the wonderful sensitivity, humor and charm that you exude now when it matters the most. I honestly am sorry for the time that we’ve wasted, and am only looking forward to the future. Through it all, what’s most important are the efforts put forth now. And it feels great to come into another year knowing that we are where we should be. I love you and our relationship means so much to me!

Grandpa:

I know you are not technically a “parent” but I don’t know where I’d be without you in my life. You were the only parent that I knew on a day-to-day basis and I couldn’t be more grateful of all that you’ve done for me over the course of my life. You are extremely important to me. Your wisdom, attention, and push to succeed watered the very person that I am today. I am who I am because of you. You have taught me so many things and you blessed me with your knowledge and strong values. I’ve always ever wanted to make you proud. You mean so much to me. And I’m really sad that we have been growing apart now that I’m out on my own. Undeniably, our connection and love are still there, but I don’t get to see you are talk to you as much as I would like. It scares me the idea that you’ll health is not as it used to be. I wish nothing more for you to be the healthy and strong person that I’ve known you to be forever. But realistically, you are in better shape than many of the less fortunate people of your age. But those things are not important, what’s important is that you know what you mean to me and that I express to you in the best words I know the appreciation I have for you taking the time and energy to shape me. I love you, beyond words, and Thank you!