Poppy,

It has been 11 years since you have left this earth. Eleven years and I still think of you almost every day. Now that I have entered college, I am experiencing new things. I am growing and developing into a person that I can only hope you are proud of. So many years have passed, but I still remember you like it was yesterday.

If I were to see you today, there would be so many things I’d want to say; so many memories I’d want to share. You were always there for me, and I miss that greatly. I miss your presence, your laugh and most of all, your wisdom. You taught me so much and I could never thank you enough. Through the years, your words have stuck with me. I have recalled them, but they have never meant so much to me until now.

College is overwhelming and it seems that all I ever do is stress. It’s like I’m constantly carrying around this burden and it just gets heavier and heavier day by day. I get so caught up in the everyday tasks that I forget to stop and think about my life, to think about the amazing things going on around me. I forget to thank those closest to me, and that means you, Pop.

So thank you…

Thank you for giving me hope.

You have given me hope for a bright future. You told me that I could be whatever I wanted to be, and now look where I am. I am working towards my goals, fighting for a future, and I have you to remember and thank every step of the way.

Thank you for your courage.

While you were alive you fought harder than anyone I have ever known. You showed me how to be strong. You instilled in me the strength to fight my battles. You taught me how to pick myself up and keep going. Whenever I face a challenge, whether it be a paper, a final, or just an everyday obstacle, I think of you. I remember your strength, dignity, and courage and I am reminded that I can push through, no matter what.

Thank you for your acceptance.

You loved, cared, and protected me through everything. I was a strange kid and I did some weird things, but that didn’t matter to you. You looked at me on a deeper level, and you understood me.

Lastly, thank you for showing me, love.

You taught me how to not only love others but myself as well. You taught me that it’s okay to be different. You showed me how to accept others for whom they are, and to not hate or judge them. Kindness, empathy, and love emulated through you, and therefore through me, too. I can only hope to be half the person you once were.

Pop, no amount of thanks could ever reflect the immense gratitude I feel. A small article cannot even begin to describe the impact you have had on me, but this is a start. Your lessons have taught what no school ever could. Your kindness, acceptance, strength, courage, and overall valor are unlike any other. Though you may no longer walk this Earth, your spirit still lives on and your virtues are ever lasting. I will always carry you with me, Poppy.

Thank you and I love you so much,

Your granddaughter