Thank you for always fixing everything.

Whether I have a flat tire, an empty bank account, or a broken heart I know that you know how to make everything right again. You’re the person I turn to and the best shoulder to cry on when I need someone. And somehow you always know what to say to either make me feel better, or keep me grounded. Thank you for always making everything better.

Thank you for showing me what hard work looks like.

I know you always come home exhausted and covered in grease, but your work doesn’t go unnoticed; although we don’t say it enough, we appreciate what you do more than you know. You’re always there on time, you stay late when you need to, and you even go in on weekends. I know it’s not easy (and definitely not pleasant) but you do what’s necessary to provide for your family, and I could never thank you enough.

Thank you for being patient with me.

You have always given me room to grow, and I can’t thank you enough for that. I know that you always have my best interests at heart, but thank you for letting me make my own mistakes. You have taught me that there are some lessons that can’t be learned until you experience certain things in life, and when they happened you were there to say “I told you so." I may have had to learn some things the hard way, but these experiences have shaped me into a stronger and more independent person.

Thank you for teaching me to stand my ground.

You have always taught me that what’s popular isn’t always what’s right. You have also taught me how to throw a mean right hook. I know you always say, “Don’t start something unless you can finish it,” and with everything you’ve taught me I know how to defend myself and stand my own ground. Whether I’m in an intellectual debate or a physical fight, you’ve given me the tools to I need to win, and I know you’d accept nothing less.

Thank you for teaching me to have faith.

I am proud to say that my father is a man of God. I grew up watching you as a leader in church, and now I get to see you preach on Sundays. One of the best messages you’ve ever given was on faith, and I think that’s because it’s something you live by. No matter what life throws at you (and I know it throws you constant curveballs) I see the hope and faith you put in God where many others would not. You embrace life’s struggles without worry, and that is one of the things I admire most about you.

Thank you for loving me unconditionally.

No matter what I say or do, no matter what mistakes I make, I will always be your daughter. Thank you for never letting me forget that.

I love you, Dad.