To my loving parents,

August 28, 1999 – the day I entered this world. The day you cut my umbilical cord. The day you both held me in your arms. The day you called me your son.

For us, it was a rocky start. When I was birthed, I came out not breathing. Mom, knowing you, you probably freaked out to the point of almost passing out. Dad, you decided you didn’t want a child after I came out not breathing. But, from that day and on, I knew you loved me so much, you’d do anything to keep me safe.

As I grew up, you continued to treat Bri and I with unconditional love and support, even after your divorce. Being a little third grader, I figured that your divorce would be hard, but it wasn’t as hard as I thought. You both were generous enough to allow Bri and I the option to spend as many days as we want with you both. I couldn’t be any more thankful for this decision you guys made.

Throughout high school, I became a very busy boy; I gained more friends, attended Delphi’s sporting events, and worked at Dairy Queen about four days a week. The time we spend together has declined, but that doesn’t mean I still don’t appreciate you. Every time we’re together, it’s a blessing from God. He definitely gave me the most loving and generous parents.

Soon, I’ll be off to college. It will be hard for all three of us, but you bet I’ll be talking to you guys at least once a day. Me heading off to college is going to be like August 28, 1999 again. You’re going to have to cut the “umbilical cord” again, but this time, I’ll be breathing. You’re going to have to let me out of your arms and have faith in God that He will send me out beyond the waters and be there for me when I’m going through trouble. Don’t worry, I’ll call you about the problems I face also.

Mom and Dad, thanks for everything. Thanks for raising me into an amazing young man. Thanks for teaching me manners, helping me with my homework (until I got to the hard stuff), and forgiving every stupid, harsh thing I told you both when I wasn’t happy. It’s the little things in life that build up the person you are today. You both were so influential in everything I did and the person I have become. Thank you.

I love you both, forever and always.

Love,

Your son