Dear Dad,

How is it possible to ever tell you how much you mean to me? How do I tell you that even though we're not as close as we used to be, I'd like to change that? How do I tell you that I'm proud of you? Or that I'm so thankful we share so many interests?

I think this letter is long overdue, if I'm being completely honest. When I was little, we were best buds. We colored and hunted for Batman toys - we even hung out in the "Batcave" while you built models. Somewhere along the line, we started to grow apart. I wish I knew when that happened, because I would go back and change it. I miss what we had, and I hope someday that it's restored.

If I'm being honest, Dad, I was mad at you for a long time. I was upset at how things ended between you and Mom - I was mad that I didn't know what was happening to our family. Some days, I still mourn over what we were. Will we always be a family? Of course. But it's different now. And for a long time, I resented that. But I'm really starting to move on from those feelings.

I owe a large part of who I am to you. You introduced me to Batman at a young age - a character who continues to play a big role in my daily life. My own daughter will grow up learning about Batman and all he encourages "normal people" to be. Not only is he a hero that I idolize, but I also love the memories of helping you find toys for your collection.

If it weren't for you, I don't know that I ever would have fallen as deeply in love with theater as I have. Theater is literally my life. I have no higher dream than pursuing a career in the theatrical arts. One of my biggest regrets is that I didn't audition for "Annie" with you when I was younger. How fun would it have been to act together? I'm hoping that maybe some day that will be a reality. Watching you on stage is one of my favorite past times now. The hard work you put into your roles is something I admire as an actor.

I have always admired you, Dad. You and I both know that things happened that changed our relationship, but I want you to know something. I forgive you. In fact, I forgave you a long time ago. I may not like all the things that have happened to bring us to where we are now, but I need you to know that I never stopped loving you and I never will.

I love you, Dad. You were my first guy - and that will always be true.