When I was younger, college didn't seem to come fast enough. I was always in a rush to graduate high school, live by myself and move on to bigger things. I wanted something new and exciting but when the time came to actually pack up my belongings and say my goodbyes to the two people I care most about it was unforgettable. This feeling hit me so hard when I realized I wouldn't be around them 24/7, and it would take a cell phone to get in touch with them. I talked about what I would do with my independence once I moved out of the house, but it never occurred to me how much I would miss the little things that my parents gave to me growing up. Distance has made us closer in a sense that I realized how lucky I was growing up with them in my life.
I think I'm speaking for many of us when I say there comes a time we literally count down the days until we move out because your independence seems so close, but so far. We got tired of the, "You need to be home by 9," and "The dishes need to be washed" texts that we started using the, "I can't wait to move out," line just to get some sympathy and guilt from you. It's OK. We've all done it, and we've all regretted saying it at the same time. The first couple weeks away seem like a vacation: no parents and no rules. Then it starts to sink in that your mom and dad won't be there as often as usual. I learned that no matter what, both my parents were there in a phone call, but it was much different than having them by my side.
Mom and Dad, there is so much I want to thank you for but I don't even know where to begin. You gave me more than I ever needed and taught me more than enough. You are the sole reason for everything I am today. There have been days where I doubted myself and struggled, but I had no doubt you two would be there. I learned a lot of this when I started living away from you. I'm sorry it took me this long to figure it out, but it's very true, distance makes you closer. I wouldn't trade the world for the relationship I have with them.
People have always said that distance makes you closer, which was really hard for me to understand when it came time to leave my parents. I didn't get why moving a thousand miles away from them would create a stronger bond between us. As for many students who go off to college, the feeling of leaving a familiar place with familiar faces is difficult. The FaceTime calls and text messages are so important to me because although they're not physically there, just spending a few minutes or an hour talking to them meant the world. Just like at home, I still had their support, and they still cared for my well being, it was just being shown in a different way. I needed that independence, but I will never stop needing the both of you.
My parents have done everything in their power to provide me with the happiest life. For so many years, these two crazy people were able to raise children and work hard to create the best life for themselves as well as their children. You both put 100% into everything you worked for and that is something I will always look up to. They never gave up, and I cherish the way both of them were able to handle the obstacles life threw at them. Thank you for the lectures, the home cooked meals, rides to the movies, and loving me unconditionally. If I am half the parent you are, I will truly be blessed. Love you both more than you'll ever know, no matter the distance.
