The lucky one

I have to say that in the lottery of parents I sure lucked out. So that is what I am thankful for today, my parents. What can you say about two of the most influential people in your life? You rock, doesn't exactly seem enough but that's where we will start.
My parents have set a pretty awesome example for my sister and I. They have been married for 31 years and dated for 8 years before that. They have shown us what true unconditional love is, not only for each other but for their families. They have taught us what it means to be a good person and a good citizen. We were taught from a very early age to respect everyone, including ourselves. They have also shown us how to stumble and not fall. And if you do fall, to "get your ass off the ground and try again".
These people shaped me into who I am today and, proudly, I admit I'm a lot like them. I'm organized like my mother. Laid back like my father. I'm creative like both of them. I'm intrigued by people like my father. I am drawn to education like my mother. I like whiskey like my father. I am emotional like my mother. I am compassionate, helpful, quirky, and a little bit crazy like both of them. So at the age of 23, I accept it... I will more than likely turn into a mixture of my parents. Most people see this as a bad thing, I see it as a blessing. I would be honored to embody such an example of humble beauty.
Now, mom and dad, don't you dare think that just because I'm writing you a glowing review that I won't fight with you. I will. We have always argued but that is how I learned to stand up for myself and my beliefs. You have taught me to love who I am, and I thank you for that every day. There were times in my life when it seemed like the whole world was resting on my shoulders but, thankfully, you both were there to help me carry the load.
So today, I give credit where credit is due and that is to you. Thank you for loving me and for being my parents.