Dear Mom and Dad,

I don’t call a lot. I’m sorry. I don’t say thank you enough, I’m sorry for that. And when I do come home, I’m sorry that I spend more time with others than I do with you.

I’m sorry for a lot of things.

But you raised me this way.

You raised me to figure out problems on my own. You raised me to do what I can by myself and to rely on no one, because not everyone will always be there to help. When I’m at school I think in terms of success and survival; and because you taught me how to do both, I don’t need to call everyday to understand how to accomplish my tasks.

I have my own job (or two or three) because you taught me that, in life, nothing is handed to you. If you need something, don’t expect anyone to get for you. You always told me that you have to get what you want and take what you need, and only through hard work is that possible.

I live at college, and yes I do my homework every day. I’m dedicated, but only because you taught me that nothing in life is handed to you and if you want something, go get it yourself. I live at college, and yes I go to some parties, and no I don’t make bad decisions. This is because you showed me what bad decisions lead to, and that is the opposite of success. I’m allowed to have fun, but you taught me how to balance.

I have my own car, and yes I’m keeping it full of gas in the winter and get my oil changed when needed. All because you taught me that if you have something that is yours, keep it nice, respect it, and it will last.

I do have a significant other. So when I do come home, I want to be with them. Because the love you both share taught me that love is the greatest magic there is. And the love you have for me taught me that even if I have a significant other to love me, my parents will always love me more.

So yes, I’m fine and you know that; phone calls don’t need to be made everyday. I am still dedicated and hardworking, because I have dreams that I aspire to reach. Thanks to you, I know there is no possible way to reach them without dedication and hard work. I can take care of myself, and I know you know that, because you taught me how.

I am not saying I never need help because you cannot accomplish anything without the lessons you have taught me and a network of people to catch you if you fall.

All I’m saying is, you did an amazing job raising me to be independent and successful. Now that I am able to be independent, I’m going to do great things; and I have you both to thank for that.

So I love you, and I'll try my best to call you and make more time to see you, because you deserve the best in the world for raising me

Thank you.

Love,

Your loving independent child

P.S I have two weeks worth of laundry. I'll just bring it when I come to visit.

I love you.