I'm Blaming this on Jack!

Hi Mom & Dad,

Sending this with the utmost respect and love (and cowardice) rather than voicing it. I expect you to be both angry and disappointed in me in this decision of mine. Frankly, after all you've done for and sacrificed for me, I don't blame you, not even one little bit.

I just want to assure you that I spent agonizing hours of weighing out the pros and cons of my decision, however faulty it might prove to be, it is not on a whim. The choice was a weighted one that burdens my heart for hurting you and dashing your expectations. I hope you can forgive me someday.

Know this: I will continue to carry the gifts that you gave me over the years. You allowed me to become an adventuress who could not be caged by should(s) or must(s.) The passion for knowledge rather than degrees stretches me further than these wall can contain. You most likely lit a fire in me by giving me that state of the art camera and that set of Jack London books when I was in junior high.

The camera gave me diverse perspectives of life and many lessons about how to live in this world. And I think I found my soul when I learned that Jack London (although my complete opposite in spiritual and political beliefs,) was a college drop out and one of the first American authors to have earned over a million dollars in his lifetime. That gave me the courage to step out, to take this chance, and to live big!

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Oh, Child of Ours,

We are stunned, only because it took so long. We are not at all surprised by this "news." We are only stumped in that you were almost at the finish line when you reached this conclusion.

We knew from the beginning there was an unmistakable twinkle in your eye and you were a bit more unique than the others. We say this with the most sincere love and admiration of the magnificent person you are, though.

Wishing you well on your journeys as you trek along, we are convinced you will make a positive impact wherever your dreams take you.

Although, unsolicited, let us offer this last tidbit of gifting advice: Search often for that which brings joy to your heart and fills you with delight. In so doing, you will avoid the trappings of becoming the worst in your hero, Jack. He died a pessimist, ruining his body with false delights. Choose your delights wisely, discerning that which offers truth and hope and not just comfort. Always be an optimist, even on days when you can only feel like a realist.

And know you are loved. You know, as your mom, the voice you hear is your mother's, but your dad sits in his chair with both a tremendous smile upon his face and tears in his eyes from a proud heart.

In other words, we forgive you, but come home for the holidays, ok?

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This was inspired by Denise's prompt in her story below and because I love Jack London works:

References:

And for Fun: