Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Words cannot express my love for you both and all that you have taught me so far throughout my 18 years of life. You have showered me with love and blessings every day, even when I was being difficult or "hated" you.
As it's starting to become real that I'm leaving for school (roughly two weeks now until we move me in). I've been doing a lot of reflecting and growing. I have learned so many lessons from you, and I plan on taking them all with me when I go to school.
1. You can only make a first impression once, so give the best one you can.
You only have one shot to make someone believe you are actually nice, so always be nice. If for some reason you need to be mean, you can always be mean later.
2. Stay informed.
It is so important to stay informed and up to date on what is going on in the world. Watch the news. Read articles. Stay in touch with what's going on around you before it happens in your world.
3. Think for yourself.
While it's always important to listen and hear others' opinions. Don't let others control you. There is nothing wrong with being independent and having a brain. Surround yourself with people who make you a better you.
4. Know where you come from.
College is a place to discover who you want to be. But you can't be that without everything that's shaped you. Remember what it felt like when your feelings got hurt. Remember the laughs during family movie night. Remember who you are and what built you.
5. There is no place like home.
I always have somewhere to go filled with unconditional love. I am so blessed to have it, and it's OK to miss it. It's OK to come home for a meal. It's OK to call my mom after a hard day. It's OK to get lunch with my dad when I miss his company. It's OK to be homesick.
I am going to miss annoying you when you're on the phone and I'm bored. I'm going to miss asking what you're making for dinner. I'm going to miss the endless videos I took of bothering you. I'm going to miss coming home and laying down in your bed and crying because I'm stressed out. It's going to be an adjustment, but that's OK.
You have raised me to be the best I can be and to always continue to grow. You've taught me to care for others and put them before myself. Although it's a terrifying step towards my future, you and I both know I'm ready for this next chapter, but that you'll be there to support me every step of the way.
I love you.
