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Dear Mom and Dad,
You helped me realize that it is more fun to give than receive, so today I take tremendous joy in giving you this Tribute Legacy Letter, a gift I hope you will cherish. I truly admire your generosity and thoughtfulness. You really care about other people, without being wrapped-up in your own agenda. Since I was young, I remember your involvement in church-related functions and different charities such as St. Ben's, where we'd serve food to the hungry. I remember how we would adopt a family during Christmas, and buy and deliver a present for each family member. One Christmas, we went to this family's apartment. I felt scared and happy at the same time. I was shocked at somebody else's living conditions. The dad living in this apartment wore a tattered, discolored tee shirt. I realized how lucky we were, and how important our volunteer work is to other peoples’ lives.
Because of the positive experiences you gave me, now my nuclear family adopts a family and brings gifts at Christmas time. In addition, we served food at the Ronald McDonald House, which is always a fun family activity. I definitely have seen a turn in my kids because of this volunteer activity. I wouldn’t be surprised if they volunteer with their families when they grow up. You created a long and strong legacy.
You showed us that money does not buy happiness. You don’t live extravagantly, and you watch your pennies. You’re careful with money so you can give more of it away. You taught me that no matter how much money you have, if you conserve and save your money, you have more to give to different mission work. That will give you more happiness than just buying a big screen TV.
You demonstrate this value by the way you live your lives. You don't go out for fancy dinners; Instead, you'll go to the $5.95 pasta night. Dad you’ll drink a $7 bottle of wine, while your friend will drink a $25 bottle of wine. “The more expensive bottle doesn’t make you happier; just makes you spend more,” you have told me. Recently, I ordered the brand name wine when we all went to the kid's golf banquet. You ordered the house wine, and I preferred yours! I feel like you taught me to be the smarter shopper.
Mom and Dad, it fills my heart observing how generous you are with your time for your grandchildren. Every Tuesday you give them the whole day. You take them to junior golf, water skiing, tubing, and other fun activities. You have created incredible memories for my kids in Florida and Wisconsin.
Sometimes I’m a little jealous because I love spending time with you too! Thank you Dad for my 8th grade graduation trip when we went on a 102-mile bike ride. I came home with happy memories and humongous calves. My calves haven’t changed since.
I feel so comfortable talking to the two of you. It is really good to go shopping with you, Mom or go to a women’s luncheon at your club. When things are rough and I am really having a hard time, whether it be with my kids or my business or the house, I always look forward to when you and Dad come home. Whether you’re in West Bend and coming back to Elm Grove or in Florida, there's just a love that comes over me when we are all together. I know that no matter what troubles I am facing, when I’m around you, I know everything is going to be OK. It chokes me up even thinking about it, but there are times where I feel so overwhelmed with so much going on that if I just say to you. “Hey let’s all go on Monday to pasta night at MaMa Mias.” We meet there and it is so nice to sit next to you and Dad and tune out my troubles. When I get back home, I feel refueled with your positive energy.
As parents, you demonstrated and instilled wonderful values and qualities. Lying and stealing were not an option in the our family. Dad you are such an honest man. Ninety percent of Americans would take the money if they were undercharged by a cashier. Dad you would go back and say, “Excuse me, I owe you 25 cents.” If a vendor worked only for cash; that was a red flag in your book, and you wouldn’t do business with him. You believed everyone should pay his or her fair share of taxes.
Dad and Mom, I admire how carefully you select your words and how well-spoken you are. You don’t give advice or opinions, unless asked. Dad I remember you speaking before a crowd and making everybody feel inspired. You could explain something complicated in a way that people could understand. You are both tactful and great communicators.
Mom, you don’t get caught-up in the “lady dramas.” You discretely remove friends from your social circle if you found out that they weren’t good people. You do a great job keeping things positive, even though you are sometimes surrounded by people who thrive on negativity. You are also so grounded. You know when to be pro-active and when to let go.
You both have very strong work ethics. Mom, now that I am a mom, I understand and appreciate how much work it takes to be a good mom. We were all in so many activities as kids, it was amazing how well you managed the four of us. I know I was a free spirit when I was younger, and I was skillful at pushing all your buttons. If you wanted me home at midnight, I would come home at 12:30 am instead. I spread my wings a little bit further than you felt comfortable. I'm sorry for what I put you through during my teenage years. I am sorry for all the misunderstandings. I understand things so much better now.
At one time I was without a job, so I had to go back and work for you Dad. You were not going to let your employees think that your daughter was going to come in and jump-up over anybody else. I was the lowest paid employee. I worked in the worst department, order processing, a real grunt job.
Mom and Dad, you taught all four of us to be hard workers. You receive a lot of credit for teaching me morals that kept me away from drugs and other pressures. You were successful because I looked up to you, and never wanted to disappoint you. The siblings, including me never wanted the DDL (The disappointed Dad look). I remember making you angry Dad, and it's not a good feeling. You get quiet and say nothing, and all day I try to figure out what I might have done wrong. You and Mom taught me to stay out of the gray areas.
You both are fair. None of the kids are treated differently, but we are all loved and feel appreciated in our own special way. We all brought something different to the table. I think you did a good job highlighting our positives traits, and letting us explore different things like camp and sports.
"For example, I had a strong interest in sewing. Mom, you encouraged me to sew by helping me buy an assortment of fabrics. I felt your pride when I would show you what I created. I am grateful that you gave me the freedom to explore myself, and my gifts throughout my life.
I think it's amazing to look at the life the two of you built. You started a business from the ground up, and it was very successful. You grew the business from one employee to 60 employees. It was a huge accomplishment to be able to see the big picture, take care of your family and all of your employees. Dad you traveled a lot and worked long hours. Mom, you were always there for all of us. I'm sure there were days you missed Dad when he was on the road, but I don't think you ever made Dad feel like he wasn't doing what he needed to be doing. You gave Dad the support that he needed to be successful. Dad is thoughtful, giving, caring and passionate. You are a high-functioning, loving team. You prioritize with your values as your guide. Your heart is always in the right spot. You foster togetherness, close bonds, and demonstrate by actions how important family is.
Mom and Dad, you have always been there for me. I'm just so grateful for your unconditional love and support. Whether I'm making good decisions or bad decisions, knowing that you are there, is priceless. I hope I can give that to my kids, and refuel them when they need it. I can’t explain it well, but I'm just so thankful for the direction you have taken us. Your wise guidance creates a legacy that will be felt for generations.
I Love You So Much,
Your Daughter_______
Aug. 20th, 2012
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