Although I was only 5 or 6 years old, I remember that moment perfectly. It would impact my entire life probably more than anything ever would. It was the moment my parents called my brother and me into the living room, sat us down, and explained that they were getting a divorce.

My brother burst into tears. I was confused and was only curious as to why my mom would be finding another house to live in. It was the moment that changed my world–not for better, not for worse. My life was simply different, and I knew it would be okay.

In fact, there have even been some bright sides to this usually upsetting event.

I quickly learned, and am still learning, just how caring and amazing my parents are.

Dear mom and dad,

Thank you for always randomly asking me if I was handling the divorce okay. I know that when I was little, I would roll my eyes and say “I’m fine.", but I really was. I didn’t realize until later in life how lucky I was for you to constantly ask me that question. You made sure that I was comfortable at both houses- that I had everything I needed to make my room feel like a bedroom, that I had enough toys at both houses that I wouldn’t get bored, and thank you, dad, for always asking what I wanted for dinner and giving it your best attempt.

Thank you for taking the time to talk with my elementary school teachers about the recent change. It means the world to me that you wanted to make sure I was doing okay even when I was in school.

I want to thank you both for showing me what it’s like to have such supportive and amazing parents.

In ways, it made our family even closer.

Thank you for always reassuring me that we would always remain a family no matter what happened. You remained best friends and an "ugly" divorce wasn't even in the question. I know your biggest fear was my brother and me thinking that we didn’t have a “normal” family. We don’t, but who does? I wouldn’t change our family for the world.

My living situations were actually pretty cool growing up.

I remember in 4th grade art class, we were all asked to draw a picture of our house. I proudly shot up my hand and braggingly said, “Well, what if I have two houses?” I always thought it was cool and never saw anything wrong with it. Thank you for choosing to live within walking distance of one another. You didn’t have to, but you did for us. Thank you, dad, for waiting to move until I was in college. I know you had wanted to live in Philly for a long time, and knowing you stuck around for me proves that you are a good man. I’m so glad you love your new town, and I think it’s so cool that I always have a place to stay when I want to come to the city.

You showed me what true, unconditional love looks like.

Thank you for remaining the best of friends. You have showed me that life after love is possible, and it is possible to stay friends with someone that once meant more to you. Love doesn’t have to mean spending forever together, and you guys have showed me more love between each other and towards me than I could ever ask for.

I have met some really great people.

You always make sure to keep me updated on your love lives. Thank you for being so thoughtful and asking my opinion about who you are dating. Some people you have dated have even turned out to be role models in my life, that will be in my life whether you are still with them or not.

I get quality time with both parents.

Mom, I love our ritual of going to Carrabba’s every time we see each other. I love sitting on the couch with you and catching up on our TV shows. I love shopping with you, gossiping with you, and learning how to cook. Also, thank you for showing me that I will never need a man to make me happy.

Dad, whether you believe me or not, I will always be daddy’s little girl. Thank you for inspiring me to appreciate writing, the outdoors, and rock n’ roll. Thank you for teaching me how to be handy and hang things up in my new apartment. Thank you for never giving up on me.

I never want either of you to feel guilty about anything, you could not have handled it any better and I would not change one thing. I am so appreciative to have such a supportive, incredible family.

Love,

Your favorite daughter