Dear Mom and Dad,

From the very first moment you heard I was on the way, I was your daughter.

I was your daughter from the very first time you held me in your arms and from the very first time you whispered my name. I have always been your daughter and you my parents. I will always love you.

You never tried to hide the fact I was adopted. In fact, I feel as if I always knew. You read me books about other kids like me, kids who were wanted so badly and loved so fiercely, that I never felt as if I was different. I knew I was loved. I knew I belonged with you.

You watched me grow, as I learned to read and talk and run. You encouraged every interest I ever had; taking me to dance class and buying the outfits even though I never followed through. You fought with me over bedtimes and homework, but now I see you were just being good parents. I’m sorry if I never said thank you.

As I got older and turned into an angsty teenager, you tolerated broken curfews and boys but always kept me on the right track. You made sure I was able to travel the world, learn about new things and pursue my dreams. I know it wasn’t easy, but you did a great job. There were hundreds of early morning sports practices, track meets and hockey games - you were at every single one, rain or shine. I noticed. Even if I was always with my friends and acted like you didn’t exist. I promise, I noticed.

Now that I have grown into a young woman I see how much I need you. How drastically you have changed and influenced my life. Without you, none of my success would be possible. Without you, I wouldn't have a mom and dad. You chose to adopt a child that wasn’t yours and swore to love them unconditionally, forever, no matter what; and in doing so you saved my life.

I am now in college, finishing my second degree. Following my dreams of poetry and art, which I know is not the most practical, but I am doing what I love. You have never discouraged me, never questioned my happiness; now as I thrive I want you to know how thankful I am.

Family is not always about genetics. Family is about love. Adoption is about love. I am so lucky to have been brought into our family with open arms. I will never be able to adequately put into words how much I love you or how thankful I am. This was just a start.

So, thank you, for loving me.