Mom and Dad,

This is something that I do not do enough, let you know how much I appreciate all you've done for me and taught me the past 18 years. Now that I'm older and living on my own... sort of, I've come to understand what incredible parents I actually have. So thank you both.

Thank you for making sure I have an education. From the moment I could read, you've both taught me the importance of getting an education. You've made sure I am aware of how fortunate I am to have knowledge at my fingertips, and you've worked very hard to make sure I am able to access it.

Thank you for making sure I do what I love. You've never told me what you think I should do with my life or pushed me in the direction of your dreams for me. You have always left the deciding up to me, encouraging me to follow my heart.

Thank you for pushing me to be my best. You have both always told me never to give up, never to quit. You told me that as long as I tried my best, nothing else mattered.

Thank you for teaching me to embrace who I am. You've taught me that we are born who we are and nothing can change that. We have to understand and accept who we are to better ourselves and the world.

Thank you for teaching me about equality. Not only do we have to accept who we are but who others are. You taught me that nothing makes me or anyone else better than another. We are all equal no matter our religion, sexuality, gender...etc.

Thank you for taking me to church. You taught me from a young age about the word of God and his love for me and everyone and thing on this plant. You've shown me the importance of prayer on the good and bad days.

Thank you for saying no. You stuck with your gut feelings, even when I really wanted to go. You probably saved me from a lot of trouble and heartache.

Thank you for saying yes. You let me experience life and go on my own adventures.

Thank you for helping me understand what love is. You gave me hugs and kisses and taught me at the end of the day if we have nothing else, we always have love.

Thank you for giving me the best life. You worked harder than I could ever imagine to make sure my siblings and I have had the best life possible. I can't ever repay you for that.

Thank you for being the best parents. Thank you for loving me and putting me first. I can say thank you a million times, but I will never truly be able to express my gratitude for you both. Mom and Dad, I love you...and thank you.