Five and a half years ago I lost my father unexpectedly. I miss him dearly. My mother and he were my role models. I never told either of them that, but they were. I’ve learned so much from them. Nobody has a perfect relationship, but the thing that was perfect was their love for each other and their children.

I was going through a rough patch in my life, and all of a sudden my father was gone. I felt I couldn’t grieve for him or my situation because I had to be strong for my mother, my sister, and my daughter. I did my best.

My mother never once criticized me or my decisions, and was there for me.  Same for my sister. We have grown closer together because of our family situation.

I wish I could do more to verbalize my appreciation for them. I’ve never taken “full advantage” of talking to them about it. It’s taken time, and this letter helps.

I feel closer as a family than I ever have before. I don’t know how I can communicate how much I love them. This doesn’t do it justice, but it is a start. - Tim, OH

YOUR MESSAGE- "Nobody has a perfect relationship"