Dear Mom and Dad,
It’s often said that, “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” Now that I have spent my first semester away from home, I can attest to the truth in that statement. After seeing you both almost every day for eighteen years, it was quite a change to move away to my own home in college. I can definitely say that I cherish the time we get to spend together now, but I also want you to know that I’m so thankful for all that you have done, and continue to do, for me.
Now that I’m “all grown up,” I sometimes miss the little moments like reading books with you at bedtime, playing pretend games like “teacher,” and watching episodes of TV shows on PBS Kids, Nickelodeon, and Disney Channel with you. I miss going to the grocery store with you, having you drop me off at school in the morning, and sharing family dinners at night. Although I would love to relive a few of those memories, I know that some of the memories that we’ll make together as I get older will be even more exciting.
I’m so grateful for all of the time and energy that you both have already sacrificed for me and for all that you continue to sacrifice for me while I’m in college. Thank you for always being my cheerleaders. You both support and encourage me in all of my endeavors. You even cheered me on when I tried to play softball though you knew that I wasn’t exactly an all-star player. Thank you for being a shoulder to cry on when school was stressing me out and when 9th-grade drama got a little too rough. Thank you for showing me the world, whether that meant swinging at the park, spending the day in New Orleans, or going on an adventurous vacation to the mountains. Thank you for being my best friends, always offering me advice and making me laugh. Thank you for showing me how to love others and for teaching me life lessons that were sometimes difficult to swallow.
Now, I realize all of those times that I was sent to my room or forbidden from going to a friend’s house have made me into a better person. Throughout my childhood, you taught me manners, responsibility, loyalty, discipline, and the importance of friendship. You instilled in me a thirst for adventure and a desire to serve and lead others. You taught me how to have fun, and I’m inspired to be more like both of you every day.
Thank you, Mom and Dad, for always knowing how to make me smile, for bringing me joy, and for showing me love through the good times and the bad. I’m excited to build my future on the great foundation that you have given me.
Sincerely,
Your Daughter
