Mom & Dad:

There’s something to be said about the people who work hard for what they have. I never truly understood this until recently. I’m sure you remember my childhood when I would get angry or upset because you wouldn’t buy me something I wanted. You probably also remember those days when I would complain about the girl who came to school with an entire new wardrobe or the boy who got a brand new vehicle. Even though you always told me I would appreciate you not buying me an entire closet filled with clothes or a new car every time I wanted one, I didn’t believe you until now.

Growing up has taught me that being spoiled doesn’t get you anywhere in life. Although you both spoil me in your own way, I am not what most would consider the definition of spoiled. Of course, you both buy me a few items of clothing when we go on shopping trips or help me pay for expenses at college. However, I also know what it is like to purchase things on my own. Working hard during the summer to save money for trips, clothes, and all the other expenses that come with life is something that both of you have taught me, and I am so very grateful.

Right now, I’m in my final year of college with graduation quickly approaching. I’m taking summer classes, and I’m unable to have a summer job for the first year since I turned fifteen. Although I know you’ll be there to support me with whatever expenses come my way, I realize that finding a way to survive without a summer job is part of growing up. I’m beyond blessed that if I can’t figure out a way to make it work, you’ll be there to catch me when I fall. However, I’m even more blessed that you have both instilled the character traits of being hardworking, motivated, independent, and driven into me. Because of you, I know that I will survive being unemployed for the first time in my life.

Thank you, Mom and Dad, for teaching me how to work hard for what I have. Because of you, I am hardworking, and I know I will be successful no matter what obstacles are thrown my way. Far in the future, I hope that because of you both, I will be able to instill so many of these hardworking traits into my children. After all, being spoiled and getting everything handed to you, won’t get you very far in life.

Love,

Your very grateful daughter