Well mom and dad, this year marks the 21st year of having me as your wonderful child... well somewhat wonderful. Over the years we have been through a lot together. The saying goes, "the good, the bad, and the ugly," and we've seen and been through it all. You two have been my rocks, and have taught me some valuable lessons.
1. To Find Hope No Matter the Circumstances.
Mom, you have always shown me that no matter what there is always hope. We've been through the ringer with many hardships, but you always told me to find hope in the fact that God is with us always. Thank you mom for being my best friend and a huge role in my spiritual guidance. As well as for teaching me that it is okay to fail, but we can find hope in God's redemption.
2. To Be a Hard Worker and Have Good Work Ethics
Dad, I want to say a quick thank you for teaching me to be a hard worker. You've worked hard throughout the years. From carpenter to truck driver, you've done it all. You have worked in other states at times for months to a year at a time. You took me to your job sites, and showed me work ethic. You always told me "don't take the quick and cheap path, but do it right the first time." For that I know both mom and you have taught me what it is to work hard.
3. Don't Worry About Tomorrow
Well this is a lesson that even today I must put into play. The future is a scary thought as a college student. I worry a lot about what career I will choose, and if I'm following God's will. You two have always said, "Don't worry about tomorrow. God's already there." That is why my favorite verse is Jeremiah 29:11, because God already knows His plans for my life. Even facing the future of tomorrow I have a constant reminder that has been engrained in my head by the two of you.
4. Family Comes First
Well this is the end all be all topic. No matter what family has always come first. Now that does not mean that my friends that are considered family are not included in this. When it comes to family, you two have taught me that family is always there for us no matter what. Therefore we are always there for them. For that I thank you, because without that I wouldn't be as close to them as I am. I grew up babysitting my cousins since they were born, and being there for their big moments in life. My 12 year old cousin Brandon, may not admit to his friends how cool I am, but he still hugs me and says he loves me around the family. I don't think I would have that relationship without your stressing of the importance of family.
5. To Have a Sense of Humor
It was just the other day that us three were up at 4 A.M. and we were repeating funny movie quotes from "Roll Bounce." We were laughing and somewhat slap happy, but it was one of the best mornings. You two have both taught me it's okay to laugh and be silly. To be loud and obnoxious, but respectful. Farts, burps, poop, and "She's the Man," are all topics that can and will be discussed freely. What can I say, you also taught me to be honest.
6. Find Happiness in the Little Moments
Whether it be going for a bike ride down the trail near our house, or doing the dishes together, I enjoy every moment I have with you two. It doesn't mean we are perfect, and don't have our differences. What it does mean is that no matter what I choose to find happiness and joy when I'm with the two of you, and in other aspects of life.
Thank you mom and dad for teaching me to also be respectful and most importantly to love God above all else. I know that God put you both in my life for a reason, and I thank God each day for giving me two such inspirational parents. Thank you for being with me through all of life's trials with me so far. I love you both very much!
