To my father,

Words do not justify. Going through many years of schooling and your profound studies, you are indeed the smartest man I know. You have shown me the importance of my faith. With each problem or predicament that arises, I have seen you turn to scripture for answers. You have shown me that dreams do come true because you made your dreams a reality. As you always say, “I’m living the American dream.” You have always provided for me and my brothers, and most importantly, my mother. You have shown me what it means to really love someone and put that person before yourself. Aside from God, the most important thing to you is evident—our family. You have made me grow as a man. You have challenged me in every aspect of life and I will always try to follow in your footsteps.

To my mother,

I love you so much. As much as you hate sitting at the ball field for hours, I thank you for it. Many people do not get to spend day after day with their mom, but I am grateful for all of your time. Through all the car rides and long days, we have grown extremely close. You are the sweetest person in the entire world, and you light up the world with your love and beauty. Dad always says I will never meet a better woman than you and he is correct. After a terrible outing on the field, I know when I get in the car to ride home you will not fuss at or try to coach me. All you do is smile and remind me to “get it next time.” Thank you for always loving life and teaching me to create the most out of my experiences. You have shown me that life isn’t always peaches and cream and that sometimes it can be difficult. You have persevered through your struggles and it gives me comfort knowing that I will be all right, just like you.

To both of you,

I can’t thank you enough for everything you have done and taught me. As I grow into adulthood, I will always reminisce and hark back on our lives together. From countless hours on countless ball fields to fresh-cooked steaks and Rook, both of you have truly been the most prominent parents I could have ever imagined, and if I am lucky enough to have a family of my own, I strive to be the role model you have been for me. You have loved me unconditionally; through all of my struggles and endeavors, you have always provided me comfort with open arms. Even though, at times, I have turned my back on you, you have never turned yours on me. You have taught me how to have a work ethic. Work is not easy, nor does it always have an immediate reward. Time and time again, I have seen you both get knocked down and recover with more girth and strength than you have ever shown before. You both work diligently and with a chip on your shoulder. You have been successful at providing my brothers and me with lives you could not have imagined while you were young. I have never been without food on the table or a bed to sleep in, and I cannot express a lifetime of gratitude in a simplistic article. Me and my brothers are growing up and I thank you for making us who we are. You have succeeded in raising me and Josh, and I know you will continue to be such amazing parents for Paul. As I grow up and move out of the house, I will remember all of the lessons you have taught me. I will continue to learn from you and look to you for guidance. Thank you for loving me.

- Daniel