Hi, Dad.

It hasn't been long since you passed away and every morning still feels the same, the pain is almost unbearable. I found myself in the store today, scared out of my mind as I looked around to see all of the holiday decorations on display. Facing the harsh reality that you won't be here for the season that we both adore made my heart cry out.

I've also had to come to the realization that you won't be around for some other very important things that are approaching very soon, too, like my eighteenth birthday, or my high school graduation. However, I've made a promise that I am still going to do whatever it takes to get through and succeed at these things, for the both of us. You've been there for me, cheering me on, and I know it's a huge reason as to why I've gone as far as I have.

You taught me how to read and write, and how to tie my shoes and whistle. But, you also taught me bigger things, lessons that I would carry with me for the rest of my life. Because of you, I know that I am strong on my own, that I have the power to do great things, and that I don't need anyone who doesn't believe in me. You never gave up, doing your best to guide me, and for that, I can swear that I will be endlessly grateful.

No one can fully grasp the pain when a daughter loses her father. Even though I wasn't around nearly as often as I used to be, you were always my hero. By no means were you perfect, but I loved you, and still love you, just as you were. We were both full of mistakes made between the two of us, aching with regret, but I want you to know that I forgive you just as you always forgave me.

I miss you more than you can imagine, and I wish so badly that you could actually read this. But I am thankful for the role you played in my 17, almost 18, years of life and I wouldn't trade any of it for the world.

Love,
Your not so little, little girl, who misses you greatly.