To my parents,
From the beginning, neither of you were alike. One was tall, one was not. One was loud, one was quiet. One was spontaneous, and one was strategic. Yet through all these differences you shared one thing in common, and that is your love for God, a love that has held you together over the years. You have taught us through your actions and words that the foundation to any relationship and any area of life is God. Even when thing have gotten difficult, I watched as you both continued to study your Bible, pray, and praise. The love you have for God and for each other, extended into our lives with the birth of each of us kids. From the protective years of Christien to the adventurous years of Izzy, and the jubilant years of me, you have shown us an abundance of love. You have taught us “to fish”- starting with cooking and sewing at the age of 3. You have shown us how to enjoy the small things such as growing sunflowers, playing in the sprinklers, and going to garage sales. You encouraged us to explore who we are by supporting us through each of our hobbies; Christien and the bass, Izzy riding horses, skateboarding, playing soccer, writing music, and creating music, and myself through choir, medical camp, engineering camps, mock trial, and let’s not forget science fair for both me and Izzy! Thank you for showing us how to make up when fights occur, how to support through every turn in life, and how to remain committed even when afar. I would never trade you two for anything in the world, even during the times when we drove each other crazy finishing last minute scholarship essays.
Now as I begin my second semester of sophomore year, I am reminded of the countless times you were there for me. The first day of school from kindergarten through senior year, always supportive and assuring that this year would be the best year. You taught me to stay steadfast in my goals whether it be to achieve high grades, to strengthen my friendships, or to pursue a fellowship in a national competition. I learned to befriend all that I meet, to approach everyone with a smile, and to give whenever possible. Above all, you taught me to laugh- to laugh at myself, at the cheesy Hallmark movies, and at life. Yet the most important thing you taught me was that life is not always about me. I know that life is a precious gift. I have been blessed with a supportive family, loyal friends, an abundance of clothes, the ability to walk, the chance to attend college, and so much more. With all these blessings comes the responsibility of becoming a blessing to others. From caroling at nursing homes, to educational workshops for underprivileged high school students, I have learned to give in so many ways. Now is my time to take what I’ve learned and to give. Whether it be volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, collecting stuffed animals for children in need, or reading to children at the library, I have so much to give. I will always be grateful that you not only taught me to give but established the idea that giving is a lifestyle. One that I look forward to living for years.
So tonight as I lay in my dorm, I might miss you tucking me in at night or waking me in the morning, but I know that you are with me. Who I am, would never exist without both of you. The laughter from within, that I learned from you mom you. The desire to logically analyze every situation, thanks, Dad. The ability to live each day with a smile and determination to succeed came from both of you. Oh, and most importantly, I want to thank you for the gift of life. Without you, I would never exist. I would never have the opportunity to tease my brothers, to travel the world, or to watch Fiddler on the Roof as we all sing-along. Thank you for the gift of life, the gift of joy, and the love that you never fail to supply.
Love always,
Your favorite, and only daughter
