Maybe you’re in college right now, or suffering through the brutal admissions process.
Heck, maybe decades ago, you proudly pranced across the stage with your diploma in hand. Wherever you are in life, I hope this article encourages you to find something to thank your parents for…
A little over two months ago, I decided to overpack my suitcases and move approximately 400 miles from my comfortable, small town to a busy, bustling city complete with a new time zone. In my short time here I have managed to master the art of jaywalking (sorry, Mom) and have perfected the cycle of weekly laundry. I soon learned that were some invisible things that I didn’t pack in my bags, but rather unknowingly brought to school with me. To my surprise, I brought along the characteristics of common courtesy, responsibility, and forgiveness.
Now, before you roll your eyes and think that this is some “self-gloating article", let me tell you that I would not have any of these qualities if it were not for my parents. With that being said, if you think this article is going to be me bragging about them, then you got it right and I would love if you let me tell you how great they are.
I have to warn you though, when it comes to parents, I hit the jackpot. As much as it pains me to say, I am so thankful for every hard lesson they have taught me, for it has brought me to where I am now. Every punishment and painful lecture has ultimately made me into the woman that I am today, and for that I am eternally grateful. Therefore, I must thank my Mom and Dad for instilling me with these characteristics, for I’ve come to realize that not everyone is lucky enough to have parents who teach them the importance of “thank you” and “I love you.” Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a mom who teaches them how to be vocal and the importance of being yourself. Just like how not everyone has a dad who shows them the importance of forgiveness. Despite the odds, I have both.
However, I am not naïve enough to believe that I am the only person out there with great parents. In fact, I know of quite a few other spectacular mothers and fathers myself. So, here’s a huge “thank you” to not only my parents, but to all the parents out there who are teaching their children to the be the good in the world. I’d like to give a big round of applause for all the moms and dads who make tough parenting decisions everyday, with hope that their child will grow into an ambassador of change, love and compassion.
So on behalf of me, every good-doer and future Olympian of change that is out there, thank you—because without you, we wouldn’t be us.