Dear Mom and Dad,

Let me start off by saying, I love being an only child. I thoroughly enjoy going to restaurants, exploring the world, and doing life as a party of three. Being the youngest of the clan, there is a lot that I have to be grateful for, and if you’re an only child… you should be thankful for these things too.

Not to brag on myself, but thank you for thinking I was such a perfect little child to the point where you decided to not bear any more children. Even though you probably regretted thinking I was so perfect when I turned three, being an only child allowed me to have two phenomenal role models that I consider my closest friends. I feel like if I had even just one sibling, it would be hard to be as close with my parents as I am currently. I am very grateful that I am able to confide in my parents with a broad variety of situations.

Being an only child has taught me an abundance of valuable lessons, and I want to thank my parents for helping instill these values in me. I was taught how to become an independent human being when I was allowed to be home alone. They taught me how to entertain myself so they could lead their busy work schedules that ultimately support my well-being. Also, being an only child attributed to my firm beliefs in accountability. I had no siblings to blame growing up, so it was inevitable that the spilled milk on the floor was my fault. It was also a bonus that they taught me how to extenuate the positive things in life, and to be silly with them along the way!

Some people think being an only child comes with pressure from your parents. They force you into extracurricular activities that they want you do whether you enjoy it or not. They crack down on you when you don’t hit the books hard enough. Some parents set unrealistic expectations because they want you to be flawlessly perfect. I’m thankful that my parents break this stereotype and have always encouraged me to be my best. My parents let me explore a variety of activities: dancing, Girl Scouts, swim team, marching band, and soccer to name a few. When I wanted to let go of one of my activities, my parents allowed me to. My parents wanted me to do what I love and love what I do. They also taught me that getting a B or C in the class is okay, even when I wanted to believe otherwise. My Dad always says “Do your best, and that’s all you can expect at the end of the day, correct?”

I’m positive that my parents sometimes feel flustered during their journey of parenting me. I was their test dummy, and I think I came out quite alright. However, I am aware that I am a lot to handle. Being an only child allows ample room to be a diva sometimes, even if it is only because I’m “hangry.” I will forever thank them for handling me, unconditionally loving me, and supporting me in whatever decisions I make (no matter how wrong they know my decisions are). I’m beyond thankful to have my two best friends at home always welcoming me with open arms, and I couldn't be more honored to be an only child. Thank you for thinking I am enough, and for being the best people for me in this world.

With much love,

Your oldest, middle, and youngest child.