To My Parents,
It's been a long nine months away from home. Nine months filled with stress, change, and growth.
Not only have I learned to be independent, but I have also learned the importance of it. Because at the end of the day, all you really have is yourself.
Everything you have taught me over the past 18 years has definitely come in handy these past few months. From teaching me how to do laundry, to managing my money, to the importance of keeping my grades up, I thank you for everything I've learned from you.
But I also want you to understand that I'm different now. And not in a bad or rebelling kind-of-way, but I'm one step closer to being an adult.
The first few times returning back home definitely felt sentimental. Everything I am today is because of that small little town.
But I've spent the last several months in a big city. I've met hundreds of new people, visited new places, tried new foods, and experienced life from a new point of view: on my own.
It was honestly so weird being on my own at first. Not always having you there to make my dinner, remind me to clean my room, and even just be in the same house made me realize the importance of our relationship.
When I come home, things definitely won't be how they were 365 days ago. And I'm okay with that, as long as you're willing to accept it, too.
We both have things to learn from this experience. I've had a lot more freedom and independence while away at school, and you've had a lot less headache without my constant complaining in the house.
But you've also had a lot more worrying. Please don't. Just remember I'm doing (mostly) everything because of what you've taught me throughout my childhood. You're doing a great job.
Lastly, do your best not to treat me differently. Don't mind that I "demand to be treated like an adult," I simply meant that I want it to feel normal. Don't decorate the house, don't run around trying to make the best meals. Just make it feel normal, because adjusting back to home definitely won't feel normal.
So thank you both. Thank you for always picking up the phone when I call. Thank you for venmo-ing me when I'm low on money. And thank you for always being my biggest fans.
XOXO
Sincerely,
Your college daughter who's coming home