A Letter to my Parents

Dear Mumma and Papa,

I've been meaning to write this letter for a while now, but every time I try, I find myself at a loss for words because no words can ever truly express what I feel for both of you. But today, I want to try. I want to write down my gratitude and love for you, even though I know that no letter could ever be enough to capture what's in my heart.

As I look back at my life, every step I've taken has been possible because of the foundation you both laid for me and the support given by my aunt. Growing up, I never fully understood the weight of the sacrifices you made, the silent struggles you endured, and the relentless determination you carried on your shoulders, all so that your children could have a better life. But now, as I move forward in my journey, I see it all so clearly, and I realize how truly blessed I am.

You never let the limitations of our surroundings stop you from dreaming big for us. Despite living in a village where education was often an afterthought, you both saw its value and fought against everything - the financial hurdles, societal expectations, and the pressure from family - just to give us the opportunities we deserved. You were determined to ensure that we had something better, and today, as I stand on the cusp of new professional opportunities, I know that everything I've achieved is because of your unshakable belief in me.

You fought the entire system here, and now, people in our village take inspiration from you. They have started sending their children to school, something that was once unimaginable. You had the courage to send even your daughters to school, and then to higher studies, at a time when it was an alien concept. You both may not have had the chance to receive higher education yourselves, but you are more educated than anyone I know. Your level of maturity, even from your early days, is unparalleled, and your courage and determination are unmatched. I am who I am today because of you.

Mumma, I remember how you always stood strong, even during the toughest times. You taught me the value of kindness, the importance of perseverance, and the need to work hard for what truly matters. You always shared the good with me, shielding me from anything bad. Only later did I understand why you encouraged me to stay with my aunt during school and college vacations instead of coming home - because we didn't have sufficient facilities. You always chose what was best for me, even if it meant making sacrifices yourself. And Papa, you showed me what it means to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders without ever letting it show. Your quiet strength and unwavering perseverance have profoundly shaped the person I am today.

There were so many times when it would have been easier to give in to the pressures of society - to do what was expected and accepted. But you both chose a different path for us. You pushed us toward education, even when it wasn't easy, even when others doubted, and even when resources were scarce. You believed in us when we couldn't see the path ahead. And because of that, I am where I am today.

Mumma and Papa, I don't take any of this for granted. I know that if it weren't for you, my life would have been completely different. The decisions you made, the battles you fought, and the dreams you had for us - they have all come together to create the opportunities I now have in front of me. And for that, I am endlessly grateful.

Now, with everything I have and everything I will achieve, I promise to ensure that you both see the best days of your lives ahead. I want to take you to places you've never been, to experience things we could never afford before. We'll spend more family time together - something we've hardly had in the past. And through it all, I know that, no matter where we go or what we do, we will always remain deeply rooted in the values and humility you've instilled in us.

As I move ahead, I carry with me the lessons you taught me. I carry your strength, your determination, and your love. And I promise that no matter where life takes me, I will always honor the sacrifices you made and do my best to make you proud. I want to give back to you both, in whatever way I can, for the rest of my life. Because everything I do is a reflection of your hard work and your love.

Thank you for never giving up on me. Thank you for showing me what it means to work hard, to stay true to one's values, and to fight for a better future. Thank you for everything.

With all my love and gratitude, 

AKS