Dear Mom and Dad,
You have done so much for me throughout my entire lifetime. You've been there for the good times, the bad times, and all the times in between. I know we haven't always gotten along as I grew up, but as I get older I'm beginning to see that everything you did for me was for the best. I may have been angry with you for dumb things when I was younger, but now that I'm looking back at everything all I can really say is thank you.
Mom, you and I have had our issues for sure. I am so much like you that that causes us to bump heads a lot, especially while I was growing up and living with you. After we were no longer living together, it seems like I suddenly realized how much I needed you, how much I needed my mother. I never really understood how much you did for me until you were no longer there to be able to do those things for me anymore. However, learning how to do things on my own has been very good for me, and I wouldn't have even known how to do them if I hadn't seen you do it for years. I miss being around you all the time, but I think being apart has really helped our relationship grow, and I thank you for everything you've done for me, even though I didn't always treat you well.
Dad, I loved being able to live with you while I grew up as well. I know that we had our squabbles sometimes like my mom and I had, but I don't think they ever got as bad with you as they did with her. I thank you so much for everything you've done for me as I got older, helping me learn how to become an adult. Even now that I'm not in the house anymore you're still helping me, and I am very lucky to have your help as I'm learning how to live on my own. Words will never be able to express how much I appreciate your help over the years, and I'm glad we've grown so close even though I'm not at home anymore.
Both of you have done so much for me and I will never be able to give back half as much as you have given me, but I will attempt to as I grow older. I know that a lot of other family members have helped me as I grew up as well, but I wanted to send a special thank you to my mom and dad, and to the other parents who have helped out their own kids. It's such a relief when parents are willing and able to help out their kids even after they've turned 18 and are technically an official adult in the world, because I may be an adult now but I still need a lot of help, just like a lot of us. The words "thank you" don't express my appreciation, but they're the best I got right now. Thank you, Mom and Dad. One day I will repay you.
Sincerely,
Your Very Thankful College Kid
