Whether you know it or not, you have made me the person that I am today. You have driven me to unimaginable heights, and for that I am so eternally grateful.

I'm not sure when it was that I decided I would base my entire life around what you did and how you did it, but for some reason, you inherited this constant of me, watching you in amazement, dumbfounded by how you manage to do the things you do so beautifully and valiantly. Whether you see me watching or not, I am. I watch, try to mirror your every move, every action, and try live my life in a way that will make you proud.

I promised myself that I would try to be my greatest, most genuine self always, just as you do every day. I vowed to pour my heart and soul into everything I do, because that is exactly what you do. You have pushed me to heights that I did not even know were attainable, and you did it by simply being there for me. I think one of the most valuable traits you possess is your desire for greatness. You live by this motto of "I'll give my left arm before I admit defeat," which is truly the most inspiring way to live.

It's so evident how successful you are because of what you did leading up to it. You put every ounce of your being towards success, and there is no better way to achieve success than that; you've gotten exactly what you deserve -- you've achieved greatness.

I've watched you all these years. I've seen you on the ice, in the classroom, on the stage, at your college, and my heart fills with joy every time I hear of your successes. Not only are you (hopefully) proud of me, but I am just as, if not more, proud of you.

You are, and continue to be, my number-one fan, and I am yours. I am grateful for everything you have taught me, consciously and unconsciously. I don't hold a flame to anything you do, but you have taught me to push myself through anything and everything, because the work I put in today is all for the glory tomorrow.

So here's to you. Thank you for being you, which has ultimately made me a better, more genuine, stronger, and greater person.