Dear Dad,
I will never be able to find the right words to express my gratitude for you, but I am going to do my very best.
Today is your birthday, and even though I can't be with you right now, I want you to know that you are most definitely on my mind. I'm sorry I won't be able to treat you to dinner at Jason's Deli or surprise you with a dollar tea from McDonalds, but those will be coming shortly, pinky promise!
You have always been more than a father to me. I have grown up with an incredible role model and an irreplaceable friendship. Not many can say that they immigrated to the United States at 14, without knowing English, and still managed to be the captain of their high school soccer team and graduate with honors. Without your constant display of determination and strength, I would not be the young woman I am today. You and I have always shared the same sense of humor. Whether we were laughing about something in George Carlin's stand-up, or about life in general, I have never laughed harder with anyone else.
You taught me to be fearless. Because of you, I have never backed away from a challenge; I have never passed up an opportunity to travel; I have never taken life for granted. Thanks to you, nothing seems impossible anymore!
Thank you for sharing your passion for soccer with me. Literally from day one, since you named me after Chelsea FC, I have had a love for soccer. Sometimes I feel like I wouldn't have had a choice, but I'm not complaining! I remember waking up to you yelling at the TV on countless Saturday mornings while watching the EPL, and the times when we were both yelling, sometimes not in English, during the World Cup. You even took me to see Abby Wambach's last game EVER. I mean, you really are the best. I will cherish those memories indefinitely, and will be forever grateful.
Not only did you share your passions with me, but you also cheered me on when it was time to pursue my passions. During my games, I could pick our your voice out of the entire stadium of parents telling me to "check my position", and to "take the shot!". I may not have always listened, but you were definitely heard. Thank you for allowing me to follow my dreams when it comes to my education, as well. I would not have discovered my dream career path without you telling me to follow my heart.
The past few years have not been the greatest, but you have always reminded me that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. You are my dearest friend. I hope your day is filled with free ice cream and sweet tea! I love you! Thank you for being you.
Remember: You are my Favorite.
