My parents are my biggest supporters. They always have been.
Not just financially, but in all forms of the word. In all ways you can support somebody.
Support (verb)
1. bear all or part of the weight of; hold up.
2. give assistance to, especially financially; enable to function or act.
On June 11, I went through the commencement ceremony at Oregon State University. I have a few classes to finish before I ACTUALLY graduate, but my family came to visit – even my brother and his fiancé. It was wonderful. I loved having family visiting, I loved the the time with my friends, the ceremony was fun too. Afterwords we had a party with a bunch of people, my parents gave me a grad present there – a check drawn up on a large piece of paper, pictured above.
$8,000 to The World Race.
I actually cried.
Not just because that is more than HALF of what I need to raise for the race. But because I now had a piece of paper that showed how supportive my family really is. Going on this trip is crazy. But my parents choose to say okay, this is what you are going to do, we support this.
Their support has always been more than financial. Although my bank account is a tangible part of their support, the emotional support and encouragement I have received from them over the years has been a significant key to my success. They have always been there for me, giving me advice, listening to me rant about anything form school to work, and helping me in any way they could. They’ve always been understanding, of both me and my brother.
So, while it’s become a joke to write “thanks Mom and Dad” on a grad cap, the gesture still stands. Without Mom and Dad, I would not have made it through my college career, I would not be able to go on The World Race, I would not be the strong independent young woman without having been raised in such a supportive family.
So, from he bottom of my heart, thanks Mom + Dad! Not just for the $8,000 which I am extremely thankful for, but for all of it. For the unconditional love you’ve shown me, for the support you’ve given and continue to give me, and for truly being the best parents in the whole wide world.
