Dear Dad,
From the day I came onto this planet, the two of us have had an instant connection. Not only do I look like you appearance wise, but I also have a lot of your amazing qualities. I have your sense of humor, your compassion, and understanding for everyone around you, your genuine loyalty to the people who confide in you with their deepest darkest secrets and most importantly, the love you share with the world.
I love all the good times we have had together throughout the 20 years of my lifetime, and I cannot wait for more to come. From long sing-a-longs in the car to various songs such as "Summer In the City," "We Didn't Start The Fire," and maybe even "Emotion," you have basically taught me what the '60s and '70s were all about. I also remember our distinct car rides, driving three hours with Mom and Sari in the car to go all the way up to your undergraduate college, Amherst College, to tour the beautiful campus and go eat at one of the best Chinese restaurants out there.
I'll always be Daddy's little singing buddy.
Thank you, dad, for teaching me how to play almost every sport, and even when I wasn't the best player out on the field, rooting me on. From practicing shooting some hoops at my old middle school to buying your own lacrosse stick to play some one-on-one lacrosse with me, you were always the active dad. Even if it was 90 degrees outside and the sun was beating down on everyone, you would stay outside for hours until I was content. You're honestly the best for that.
I'll always be Daddy's little athlete.
Not only did we practice sports together, but you have shown and taught me the history of one of your most amazing accomplishments. You were a national tennis player. People knew you all over as an amazing tennis player and you even were scouted by numerous schools to play in college. You have shared endless stories with me about people in our family and friends. One of the most selfless things you have done in your life, which I could not thank you enough for, was giving up the dream of becoming an actual "pro" and the possibility of being very famous just to practice law and have a family of your own.
I'll always be Daddy's little listener.
Beyond the happy things you see on the surface, you understand my struggles. You listen and do not judge. You help me in as many ways as you can and you hug me endlessly when I am in some of my darkest moments. You try your best to put yourself in my shoes and from there on out you always assure me that we are going to solve whatever is bothering me deep down, and, as well, the two of us will figure out a solution as a team.
I love you so much, Dad. You, Sari and Mom, are three people I idolize. When people use the expression, "Family over everything," they are so right. You are such an inspiration to all, dad. Please keep doing what you do. Because, truly, every little act of kindness you do, Dad, makes a huge impact on this world. Thank you.
