To My Family: Let me start by saying thank you. For everything.
For the past eighteen years, our family has experienced both joyous times and periods where it seemed like there was no hope. We've felt like best of friends and most bitter enemies. Even now, we struggle to understand one another. But I know that deep down, we are and always will be a loving, bound-together family. We've been bonded both by blessings and trauma, and that will never go away.
When I learned about this project, I at first just wanted to dedicate this poem to only one person. I knew it would be someone inside of my household, but I didn't know who. Mom, Dad, Ciara... You're all so very important to me, and I can't imagine life without you. Finally, I came to the conclusion that if I couldn't decide between the three of you, then I would just dedicate this to all of you together.
I set out on this project purely for the purpose of making it through this course. But as I worked more and more on it, I realized that it was becoming less and less of a chore and more and more of a pleasure. Soon, I wanted to do it. I wanted to write poetry for you, and to share with you my thoughts on the works of others. And from that desire sprang this project, which I dedicate in honor of you.
Mom, you have always been there for me. You put up with me from the moment of my birth (which was no small feat!), and have guided me along my path thus far. And even though I know it will soon be time to leave the nest, I realize more and more that you will always be there, no matter how much time goes on. Your laughter and craziness have permeated my life, and I'm a better person because of it.
Dad... where to start? You have sacrificed so much for this family. You've given up your hopes and dreams, and you work diligently and exhaustively to provide for us. And when I ask you why, you just respond by saying that you love us. You've stood by me through my struggles, comforted me in my pain, and have taught me so much about life and what is important.
Ciara, you can be a royal pain in the behind sometimes. But then again, so can I. And looking back, I realize that you've put up with a lot more from me than most sisters ever would from their brothers. Even though we've had our ups and downs, you've always come through for me when it counted, and I know you will continue to do so. I'm sorry that I haven't been the best of brothers to you, but I'm grateful every day that God gave me you for a sister.
All of you have played such huge rolls in my life. You've helped to shape and mold me into the man I am today, and I am so grateful for it. And now, I give back to you with this; a celebration of literature... and of us.
