Dear Mom & Dad,

First things first, this is not a letter about how much I love you, because you already know that and I could never possibly fit that much love into a words. Instead this is a letter about the statements I usually don't say, even when I should. When I meet new people I often wonder about their lives. I wonder about where they grew up, what their school's might have been like and how their parents raised them. I think about the steps that they took to get to where they are today. Then I think about myself, and where I am. I like to think that I'm hardworking, driven, and I have a pretty good sense of self. Sometimes I doubt myself and I wonder if I actually deserve to be where I am today. I've always received decent grades, I always try to do my best and I like to think I'm an independent person. When I try to reassure myself that I deserve to be where I am, I always realize that while I am indeed an independent person, I really wouldn't be here without my you two, literally. I grew up in a loving and supportive family, I have a beautiful home, I had access to great schools in my past and I was able to move to New York City and attend my dream college.

At 21 years old, I have traveled to seven different countries, I am able to go on yearly vacations, I've had life changing experiences, and have been given the independence and trust to make my own choices. I've always known that I am truly lucky to have been given the best of everything in life. My life has been full of opportunities and open doors for my future. My entire life has been a privilege. Knowing this causes me to wonder about you two, Mom and Dad. You have done absolutely nothing but support and challenge me my entire life. You taught me the meaning of hard work and being successful. You have challenged me to chase my wildest dreams no matter how far I have to go to find them. I believe that I won the lottery with you two. While we might not agree on everything, and sometimes my passionate opinions can cloud my judgement, you have always respected the person that I have become.

I want you to know have thankful I am to have the life that I live. I wake up everyday in my favorite city in the entire world. I am able to focus on my dreams and live a happy life, something not many get the luxury of. You have motivated me to be the best and that is something that I will never be able thank you enough for.