Dear Papa,

There are some people in our lives who make us feel grateful just for knowing them. Grateful that we have such an awesome person in our lives. Grateful that such an awesome person is even willing to spend time with us. I feel grateful to be your granddaughter.

The whole family knew you and I were meant to be great buds since the day I was born with your hair color. I constantly strive to be more like you in other ways, too. I absorb every minute I spend with you, every story, and every laugh.

I learn from you every time I’m with you. I have learned to be kinder. You make someone feel like the most important person when you speak to them. You’ve taught me to be sweeter. Your sweet nature fills the room. You’ve taught me to laugh at myself. You don’t get upset when your hearing aids fail and you can’t hear someone. You’ve taught me to love my family endlessly. You will drop anything for us. You’ve taught me to be a better person.

Many people my age don’t take the time to get to know their grandparents. Their grandparents are just these ancient people that they can’t possibly relate to. If people started treating their grandparents like people, they'd realize they are actually pretty cool. They have funny stories. Maybe they will tell about the time they got too drunk in college. Or tell stories of a terrible job they had. Or a bad date they had in their twenties. They have had amazing experiences and we should all take the time to listen to every story they are willing to share.

I am so glad I have gotten to know you and look forward to knowing more.

Thank you for being the father figure in my life. You have filled a missing spot in my life, and I will forever be thankful that you stepped up. Thank you for threatening to kill any guy who doesn’t treat me right. You have shown me how I should be treated and are a constant reminder to never settle. Thank you for making me laugh. Whether you mean to or not, I end up giggling days after one of our talks. Thank you for being such a great role model. Our whole family looks up to you in so many ways and we are lucky to have you. Thank you for caring about what’s going on in my life. You support me in whatever I am doing, and always want to know more about me. Thank you for being one of my favorite people in the world.

I am so thankful to have you as my grandfather and friend. I wouldn’t be here without you (literally). I love you so much Papa.

Love,

Your granddaughter