I know you're probably not expecting this, but I just want you to know how proud I am of you. I can't say I know what you're going through because I don't. But I have seen the progress you've made that even you don't realize is there.

I know it hasn't been easy to put everything down and completely walk away.

I know you struggle almost every second of every day.

I know you are holding on by a thread. But I also know that you are strong and that you are powerful and that you can do this.

In the past year, I have seen you completely recreate yourself.

You used to be this obnoxious jerk whose words cut like diamonds. You used to be this person who didn't care about what other people did for you or what you did to other people. You never cared about how your actions affected others.

But I also know that wasn't you.

I know that's not the same person who let me put bows in his hair and paint his nails when I was eight.

I know that's not the same person who forced me to practice outside with you for twelve whole hours on throwing a football.

I know that's not the same person who taught me how to scramble eggs. I also know that's not the same person that has been there for his kids.

In the past six months, you have stepped up and been an incredible dad.

You have gone from never being there and never wanting to be involved, to attending Christmas programs and going to the movies.

You're making memories now in the times that matter most.

I know it's easy to look back on the past and wish that things were different, but all that matters is that you're moving forward and making progress, just trying. You can do this.

I know sometimes you really just want to give up and give in and throw it all out, but you don't and that's what is truly amazing.

I have seen many moments where your patience has been tested and you could have walked away, but you haven't. You have stuck it out and you have stayed strong. You are proving them all wrong.

You are the one that is going to your classes for help. You are the one that is going to counseling and talking things out. You are the one that is resisting and fighting and surviving.

You have come so far in such a short time. There are countless people out there that I'm sure would love to see you fail and would love to see you fall back into your old habits. But you know you have to keep it up and keep it going and just “keep it moving."

You still have a long way to go but if anyone can do it, it's you. So keep it moving and keep it strong and know that no matter what we are always here for you and we got your back.