Throughout my life I've met my fair share of people that have divorced parents. This family dynamic was a lot harder to grasp when I was younger–I didn't understand what the word "divorce" actually meant. It was always so sad for me to hear my friends talk about splitting their holidays between parents or when they didn't like their new step parent. It took me awhile to realize how lucky I am that I have parents that still love each other and are still happily married after 27 years. So, here is a thank you to them.

Thank you Mom and Dad for still being married today. I imagine it can be difficult at times to be with the same person for more than half of your life, but I'm forever grateful that you two are still together. I often overlook how special it is to have both of my parents living under the same roof.

Thank you for still loving each other and showing me what it means to be in a healthy and happy relationship. Too often these days, people can't recognize whether or not they're in a healthy relationship. I love how you spend Sundays watching the game together and make time to go out on dates or with a mutual group of friends. I love how I never have to worry about you two getting into loud and spiteful arguments that will make the rest of our house feel uncomfortable. You understand each other and work together well, which is why it's no surprise you've been able to stay together after all of these years.

Thank you for being strict parents. I hated you for it before I got to college, but now I am starting to appreciate it. You two are a great team and really had the whole parenting thing down. I am so thankful I will have you two to model after when it's time for me to become a parent. You have taught all three of us kids what it means to be a good person and have given us all the opportunities we could ask for in order to grow as individuals.

Mom, I would especially like to thank you for teaching me how to respect myself and to always to be generous and look out for other people.

Dad, I would like to thank you specifically for always being supportive and directing me in how to be a successful, independent person.

Thank you both for teaching us the importance of good manners, education, health, family and friendship. Throughout my childhood you worked together in order to make sure you were parenting us the best way you could and I'm now grateful for all the lessons and lectures I learned from both of you, together.

Having parents that have been married for this long has helped me gain an understanding as what to look for in a relationship. It has shown me not to settle for anyone that won't treat me the way I deserve and how it is possible to be with someone forever. I look back on my life and all these positive memories I have of you as married parents come rushing to my mind. I've had the pleasure of calling you my parents for 21 years and I will continue being thankful for being able to say you're married for the rest of my life.