My parents have taught me countless lessons throughout my lifetime and continue to set examples for me in their everyday actions.

Here are the things I learned from them that have made me a better person:

I learned to be kind

My mom never stops putting others first. She cares so much about the ones she loves and will go to any lengths to make them happy. She always asks how my day went and will do whatever she can to make it even better. She’ll help out with the dishes at a family gathering, drive an extra half hour out of the way just to give someone a ride, or switch meals with me at a restaurant when I order something I don’t like.

My dad never thinks twice about helping someone. He’ll shovel snow for the neighbor, not charge someone for a bag of sweet corn, or drive me to school because I didn’t feel like taking the bus. He has such a pure heart, and I only hope I can be as kind as he is someday.

I learned to be thankful

As much as I hated being forced to write thank you notes growing up, I know why they did it. Just taking the time to write a quick thank you for something you’re grateful for can make a huge difference.

My parents taught me not to take the things I have for granted. Even if I think it’s the end of the world, they keep me anchored and remind me that there is always a positive. They taught me to stay humble and urged me to find the good.

I learned to be tough

My parents are the strongest people I know. I am so blessed to have such a strong foundation.

There is nothing my dad can’t handle. I’ve always admired how level headed he remains, no matter what chaos may be going on around him. He’s taught me to stand tall and tackle whatever problems I may be facing. My dad taught me how to stand up for myself and not back down. He’s pushed me to try new things and show everyone what I’m made of.

My mom grew up as the only sister to three brothers. She had to work on the farm and get her hands dirty. Now she continues to be strong as she works hard at her job and takes care of our family. She is the most resilient woman in my life, and she continues to be my rock. She always has a solution and stands by my side through the worst of times and the best.

I learned to chase after my dreams

Whether I dreamed of being an artist or playing on the varsity volleyball team, my parents believed in me. They were always in the stands cheering, paying for the best piano lessons, hanging my art on the fridge, and listening to whatever crazy ideas I came up with.

I’ve never had my life figured out. And I still don’t. But I find comfort in the fact that whatever my destiny may be, my parents will support me 100%. They know I can accomplish anything I set my mind to and remind me when I seem to forget.

I learned to love

I could not ask for a better family. I have grown up surrounded by constant love and support, and every day my parents stand as an example to me. My dad loves my mom unconditionally, and every time I see it in his eyes and his actions, I can only hope I am lucky enough to find that in someone else someday. My mom loves and cares for him just as much. She would do anything for him, and I aspire to be that selfless of a wife in my future marriage.

Mom and dad, I love you so much. Thank you for raising me and shaping me into the person I am today. I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere without you, thank you for your constant love and support.

Love,

Sarah