Growing up, kids never want to have “those” kinds of parents that create curfews, keep constant tabs, or still rely on taking cellphones as a punishment. We want to be free, we want to be wild, and we want nothing more to learn from our own mistakes. We all — well most of us anyways — fantasize about parents that let their children roam free late on Saturday nights or who fail to check in when we are busy having mischievous fun. However, if you had protective parents like me, you were in bed by 11 p.m., you never missed a day of school, and you were always deemed the “responsible” one. At the time, we were probably annoyed, probably assumed their goal was to "ruin our life", or even resented our parents for this limited freedom. But looking back now, I would like to say thank you to my protective, yet amazing parents for so many things.
Thank youfor instilling values and morals in me at an early age. Because of you, I know right from wrong and make smart decisions (most of the time). Because of you, I know what is important to me, what means the most, the importance of sticking to my values throughout life, and how not to take those things for granted. I was able to pursue my dreams, get an education, and have endless possibilities after graduation — because you told me to never limit myself. Because of you, I am unafraid to stick up for what I believe and pursue the things which hold the most worth in my life.
Thank you for showing me hard work does pay off. You taught me how to work hard to accomplish goals, how to always look to the future for motivation, and how to never give up in the face of defeat. Whether it was picking up responsibilities around the house, getting a real job, or being a full-time student, you taught me the true meaning of responsibility and reliability. Because of this, I have been able to reach endless goals, open numerous doors, and enjoy small successes along the way. You have shown me current situations will impact future decisions and opportunities, and to not jeopardize them.
Thank you for guiding me to healthy and positive habits. Because of you, I am able to form positive relationships and walk away from toxic situations. Because of you, I know my self-worth and what I truly deserve from friends and significant others. Because of you, I am able to choose myself over someone else, even when it seems the most difficult. Because of your example of love and family, I am able to surround myself with people that will only bring me up, leaving the negativity for someone else.
Thank you for providing me with the best childhood possible — a childhood filled with guidance, support, and unconditional love. A childhood that has made me the best version of myself I could possibly be... a childhood I will value throughout my lifetime and hopefully can provide for my future children.
So although I may have missed out on that crazy party after prom, or participating in senior skip day, I have nothing but appreciation for my parents. The reason I am who I am today is because of the values my parents taught me and worked so hard to instill in me while I was growing up. And for that, there is nothing but love and respect. So thank you!
