Dear Mom,
I know I usually make you a card like every year for your birthday, but this year, I want to do something a little different.
Ever since I was a kid you have always gone the extra mile and cared for me in everything that I did. Whether it was for basketball, baseball, or even in school, you always ensured that I would be successful in whatever I did. You are constantly on me about eating healthy, doing my homework and getting enough sleep, and from time to time it may be a little annoying, but I hope you do realize I appreciate you reminding me. I understand you care more than anyone. And sometimes I really do need someone to be on my case to make sure I’m doing what I'm supposed to be instead of being lazy.
You have also given me someone to look up to, because you have worked so hard throughout your life to get to where you are in life, and that is something I truly admire. You have also given me someone to look up to when it comes to being a teacher too. As I've had multiple friends back home tell me that you were once their teacher, and they said that you were a great teacher and an even nicer person. So for that, I also want to say thank you for being such a great role model over the years and teaching me how to live a successful life, that hard work can take you far if you truly put in the work.
Something I really regretted was that I never told you how much I appreciate having you as a mom. Because I hear stories of kids who don’t have a mom or have a mom that just doesn’t care as much and it really does give me a whole new perspective of appreciation of you. Because like I said before, you have always been there whenever I need you. Whether it was school related, I needed help making food, when I was broke and I needed money, or even when I was feeling down and really missed home, you always were there for me and made me feel better.
With that being said I also want to apologize for all the times I was mean or disrespectful to you, sometimes I’m just very stressed because it feels like I am holding the weight of the world on my shoulders when it comes to having school work. But, I know you are forgiving and we’ll understand because that is what makes you so great of a person.
Mom, I hope you have an amazing birthday and I wish I could be home to celebrate with you, Dad, David and Lexi, but I still want to send my love while I’m away at school. I hope you know I have been working hard in all my classes and have been eating healthy...well...somewhat healthy, but it’s a start. But most of all, I want you to know that I love you and that I am trying my hardest to be successful so that I can make you proud.
Love always,
Your son,
Steven Michael Panicko
