Gratitude

Parents. Can't live with them, and can't live without them. As teens, many of us tend to distance ourselves from our beloved parents. They annoy us, they embarrass us, and they always manage to say exactly the wrong thing at the wrong time. The truth is, regardless of the raging hormones and emotional ups and downs, when I'm really honest with myself, I couldn't be more grateful for having two people in my life who always put my needs before their own.

My mom and dad are truly selfless when it comes to my sister and I. They exemplify the meaning of unconditional love. I always know that they have my back no matter what I've done, and if I have a moment of self doubt, they are always there to let me know that anything is possible and they will be by my side. This morning I was looking at childhood photo albums. It warmed my heart to see photos of my parents fully engaged in everything I did. My father gave up his time to coach my soccer team with patience and kindness. My mother was my biggest cheerleader (though at times embarrassing) and never missed a game. Growing up, and even now, I have always depended on their wisdom and great advice when it came to school. My father, the math wiz, and my mother, the writing guru, have helped me throughout my educational career.

My Family

Sometimes I feel like instead of making life difficult for our parents, criticizing them for the smallest things they say, rolling our eyes, and slamming our doors, we should take a moment of self reflection, to think about those who don't have doting parents fulfilling their every need. Instead of taking our parents for granted, we should appreciate their love and compassion, and treat them with the respect they deserve. Being a parent is not an easy task, and believe me, we can be a handful at our age to say the least. I suppose the next time we have the urge to roll our eyes or talk back or ignore a request, we should take a deep breath and instead practice gratitude and compassion. 

I, for one, am grateful to have two of the most loving, caring, understanding, and dedicated parents on the planet. My mom always says,"That it's not a popularity contest; that at times she may say things that I don't like or may even believe are unfair. But someday, I will realize that she's doing it for my best interest." That day is now, for I am truly aware that they have my best interest at heart and I am forever grateful for their presence in my life.

I love you Mom and Dad. Thank you for being you.