Family: They come in all different shapes and sizes. I’m happy to say that mine has been three of my best friends and biggest support system since the day I was born, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything. I have learned something from each of them that has shaped me into the person I am today and the person I want to be in the future.
My brother has taught me what it’s like to have a true passion for something and working towards succeeding at it. I’ve never seen someone completely lose themselves in what they’re doing like he does when he’s fishing. He would stay out on the lake from sun up to sun down if he had the chance. He dedicates most of his free time to watching videos, reading books, and staying up to date on the latest equipment to catch as many fish as he can. I’m amazed at how he can spend so much time at something, never get bored, and always want to get better. My passion for sports and work ethic I have in school has definitely been inspired from my big brother.
My dad has taught me how to put my loved ones first. Everything he does he does with his family in mind. Our happiness is more important to him than his own happiness. He always makes sure my brother, mom, and I are taken care of before he is. The long days he spends at work and the amount of overtime hours we puts in a week are all so he can provide for the three of us and give us everything we want. It’s truly admirable the altruism that my dad possesses. I’ve seen myself starting to follow in his footsteps and put my loved ones before myself at times, but I hope one day that I can be as selfless as he is when it comes to my family.
My mom has taught me how to be a friend. She is patient, understanding, and respectful, all the qualities people look for in friendships. She recognizes her differences with others, but is the least judgmental person I know. She is also the best listener who I know is always only one call away. I can vent to her when I’m having a bad day or be the person I tell all the good things that happened. I can talk to her about anything, and she’ll give me some piece of advice, which I might not want to hear but ultimately know is the right thing to do. I always laugh and have fun when I’m with her. I started as her daughter and am growing into being her best friend. I can only hope that one day I am as good of a friend to my daughter that my mom has been to me.
I know I’m not always the easiest to live with, but I know they’ll always still enjoy my company. I know they may not always agree with my decisions, but I know they’ll always support me. I know that I’m going to be living a life of my own one day, but I know they’ll always love me. I love them and am so thankful for all that they do for me.
