Dear Grandma,

Grandparents Day, 2015, falls on September 13 this year and I would like to use this letter to thank you for everything that you’ve done throughout my life.You’ve helped me in many ways, both directly and indirectly, and probably haven’t realized the great impact that you’ve had. I’ve come to understand that you’re a very intelligent, strong, loving woman whose had a great influence in my life. As a young girl, you showered me with books during Christmas and birthdays in order to impart your wisdom into my life. You taught me that being educated and book smart is just as important as being street smart.

But even before your caring love was in my life, it was ingrained in my stepfather’s life. You raised him to be a strong man that would take care of his household and care for his family with the love of a father. Even though I don’t get to see you as often as I’d like to, you’re teachings and love are always with me because they are implemented through your son. He became my father in 2002, and because of his genuine love, I call him my dad and not just my stepfather.

For this Grandparents Day, I not only want to thank you for being a great role model in my life but in the life of my dad. I want to sincerely tell you that I love you deeply, and will never forget the joy that I had when receiving a card and boxes of books from you during holidays. I will never forget how you told me stories and how proud you are of me. Finally, I'll always remember when you unexpectedly called me during my first year of college to check on me, and asked me how everything was going, to show that you care.

Your continuous love and support has always reminded me to stay in my studies and do well in order to be successful, because you did so before me. Your love taught my dad, and through him he helped teach me and help me grow in more ways than I can count. At times, I thought that his teaching methods, coming from you, were somewhat harsh but now that I’m a little bit older I view them as the opposite. They only seemed harsh because they were helpful and undoubtedly leading me down the correct path. You were always a strong parent and an educated figure in his life. He learned from the ways that you walked and talked, and now I follow those ways as well. I know that one day my kids will be able to look up to me for the wisdom that was passed on from you. But I hope that I can be as inspiring to them as you always have been to me. Grandma, I will always appreciate your love and support, and never forget that you instilled those characteristics in my father before they were instilled in me. For that, I’m eternally grateful.

Love,

Mary-Elizabeth