Growing up and moving away was one of the hardest things I have ever done. At first, it had nothing to do with being away from my parents, but it had everything to do with the struggles of becoming an adult. I struggled with the first semester of college away from home and realizing that I am only responsible for myself and having to be accountable for my actions all on my own. The comfort of my old high school friends and my bedroom at home was no longer there, but neither were my parents. I never realized how comforting they were till I no longer had that constant support system. I had to set out to find my own. Going to college taught me a lot of things. I realized what was important and what was not. I realized who was important and who was not. What I did not expect were my parents to become some of my best friends.

I would call them whenever I was having a mental breakdown, if I failed or did well on a test or if I did not know how to do something. I would even call just to talk to them because I missed them. And yes, there were a few times when I called them because I thought I was dying when really I was just sick with some weird virus going around campus. I always appreciate them picking up the phone.

My parents know me so well, and sometimes, too well. They understand what makes me angry, sad, and happy, and since they understand these parts about me, they know how to handle my emotions. Both my mom and my dad now are able to tell me when I am acting out of line or when I am acting normally. I always appreciate them for dealing with me.

The best thing about my parents, though, is the fact that they support me through anything and everything. I may go down some paths I should not, but they are always there to pick up the pieces. They support me in my career choices and they support me in my school choices as well. They support me in whoever I decide to date and hope that they are good for me. They also support me in my friend choices. I always appreciate them for that support system I could never replace.

Just like the best friends I am not related to, I am able to say that I always want the best for my parents. I want them to be happy and healthy. I never want them to feel alone. I want them to live the best life that they can live. I want them to know how much they mean to me and why they play such an important role in my life. I would have never thought that my parents would become some of the best friends I ever have had and ever will have. They are not only the best people I know but the greatest friends I have. I am so lucky to have them in my life.

So, thank you, Mom and Dad. I love you so much.