This is a message to my parents, because I think I am ready to be a grown up.

Mom, Dad, I know you really really care about me and I know you take care of me, but I also know how to take care of myself. Yes, I might get sick, and yes there will be many many things that I will not know how to do, at first, but I will get the hang of it. You can stop worrying about me failing, because sorry to break it to you, I am sure it will happen many many times.

But that is part of growing up, and putting me in a bubble to prevent mistakes will only be a set back. While being away, I have learned many valuable skills such as cooking, cleaning, how to take my medicine when I am sick, how to do laundry, etc. but I also learned the "what not to dos."

I know you are scared that I might binge drink, or do drugs, or other kinds of things, but I am an adult, and one of then things I have learned is responsibility. I know by now, what harms my body, the effects, and ultimately it is my choice if I do it or not.

However, you don't have to worry about me doing things that are not good for me. You raised me right. Have you forgotten that? I learned the what-not-to-do's early. I know what is right for me and my body. So I hope that you know you can worry less.

I am 22 now, and since I live away, I go out and do things with friends, and some days I might come home later than you'd like, but I do so safely. When I visit you, you are calling me at 10 asking where I am, and I want you to know that if I were wanting to do "bad" things, more than likely I could have done it already while away.

The most important thing I want you to know, is that I am strong. Perhaps I look 15, but I am not. I am not vulnerable or weak. I am a woman, but truth is, you have not experienced just how much strength I hold. Please give me a bit more credit.

I've made mistakes, but most importantly, I have learned from them. Growing up is not easy. It comes with a lot of trial and errors, moments of stress and frustration, nostalgia, and many, many tears. But lucky for me, I know I have you to count on when things get rough, and I know you will help me adult. You don't have to worry about me not needing you, because trust me, I will always need you. Even if it is just to talk to someone.

So stop worrying! As much as you would like, you cannot prevent all of my problems. I will have to learn the hard way sometimes, and that is okay.

I love you both, and remember that although I may be an adult, and you are having a tough time accepting that, I will always be your little girl.