Lauren,

Wow, it is hard to believe that you are a senior. You have changed our lives for the better in so many ways, and we hope you know how much we love and cherish you. We recently read that there are three ways to remember something – how you thought it would be, how it actually was, and what you will carry forward. We thought parenting would be hard and it was – we made many mistakes, and we learned so much along the way. You have taught us to have grace for things we might not understand (like crop tops, piercings and TikTok) and compassion for those whose struggle is different from ours. Although there were hard days, what we will remember most is what a gift it was to be your parents.

We are so incredibly proud of the person you have become. Your diligence, persistence and ambition will take you far, and your future is full of great things. Although we are sad that you are moving on, we are also excited because your entire life is in front of you. At the end of day, our greatest hope is that you will go out into the world and make it a better place. We hope that you will approach others with compassion, and use your unique experience to connect with people in a meaningful way. You have so much to give, and we cannot wait to watch your life unfold.

Thank you for teaching us to love unconditionally, for giving us the opportunity to be parents, and for being our daughter. You are strong. You are beautiful. You are brave. You are determined. You are the best. We love you beyond measure, and we will cherish every memory we made along the way. Now go out there and do great things, knowing we will always stand beside you.

Love,

Mom & Dad