I want to start off by saying I love you, and that this open letter is not an attack on you, but an expression of my feelings and emotions, in hopes of helping others who have been in my shoes. I am thankful for all the advice you have given me, the new families you have shared with me, and the support you have shown me. I am thankful, but having you come into my life was one of the hardest obstacles I had to face. As a child, I had the image in my head that my mom and dad would be together forever, and that they would be role models for my future marriage. When my parents split up I was devastated. When you walked into my life, originally I didn't want you there. I saw you as an obstacle that would keep my parents from ever getting back together, and that was hard for me to accept. I would have to get used to someone new in my life, and in my home.
I know sometimes I seem quiet around you. I'm quiet because I don't want to hurt your feelings. I know I can be open and honest with my parents, because I'm a miniature version of them, they understand me, they know I can be a handful, and will love me no matter what. I don't like when you tell me what to do, when you try to act like my parent, because you're not my parent. I want you to be more of a friend, a role model, someone I can go to for advice, not someone who could replace my mom or dad. I know that is not your intention, but to a child, that is what it felt like.
You made my parents happy though. You made them smile, and that's all I really wanted. I didn't like seeing my parents upset, so knowing that they were happy again, made you entering my life easier. You see, all I've ever wanted is for the people around me to be happy, I don't like seeing them hurt. I remember how happy my dad was the day he married you, Monique. It had been years since since I had seen him smile that wide. I remember how happy my mom was when she married you, Justin, and how happy she was to have two more kids. You both made my parents smile again, and I thank you for that.
Over the past nine years, I have strongly disliked you, but have grown to love you. I know you want what is best for me, as if I was your child. I know you love me and would go to the ends of the earth for me. I know this has been a struggle and a learning experience for all involved. I thank you for supporting me, giving me advice, being there for me when boys break my heart, and doing your best to help me reach my goals.
Monique and Justin, thank you for not being the evil step parents you see in movies.
For anyone else that has felt or is currently feeling this way, I know step parents can be difficult...but so can step children. Keep your heart open, and you may be surprised by what happens.
