Dear Family Member That Never Chose Me,

I have so many questions for you but the only question that can come to mind is, "Why?"

Why did you always choose everything and everyone else over me? Why were you never there for my birthdays, my graduations, or my life in general? Since you haven't been an active member in my life, I want to update you on the amazing things you've missed.

Did you know I graduated high school with a 3.8 GPA?

Did you know that when I graduated high school I was only 6 credits shy of an associate in science degree?

Did you know I was accepted into the nursing program?

No, you didn't.

You didn't know any of those things and I'm just now realizing that it was no fault of my own. I always thought maybe I just wasn't trying hard enough. So even with the countless birthdays missed, I wanted you to be there when I walked across the stage to receive my diploma. I sent out graduation invitations 2 months in advance. Most would say this is plenty of time to make plans to attend a graduation, but I guess for you, there would never be enough time.

We offered to give you a ride. I hoped that you just wanted to go because you loved me, but you didn't go. Instead, you chose something else over me.

At 18 years old, I wished that I could accept the fact that you weren't the person I wanted you to be, but I just couldn't. In the process of hoping one day you'd be there for me, I got heartbroken over and over again. Even though you won't see this letter, I want you to know, I forgive you.

I forgive you for missing 19 amazing years of my life.

I forgive you for missing the day I walked across that stage with the biggest smile on my face, accepting my diploma.

I forgive you for missing my countless birthdays when I smiled from ear to ear.

I forgive you because, in those moments, I was so happy. In those moments, you missed the happy tears, smiles, hugs, and cherished memories that you will never know about.

I forgive you.

Love You Always,

Katie