thank you for getting me on a skincare routine

thank you for getting me to write free verse

thank you for getting me to write fiction

thank you for getting me to read again

thank you for getting me to make friends (seriously, thank you so much)

thank you for teaching me about platonic cuddling

thank you for showing me there are good people out there who will accept me for who I am

thank you for leading by example in your work ethic for it still inspires me

thank you for teaching me how to laugh

thank you for getting me to take people’s silliness less seriously

thank you for teaching me about nonsexual physical contact, for I learned I craved that more deeply than anything

thank you for getting me to eat fruits and vegetables

thank you for making me excited about school and getting an education

thank you for reminding me the pure joy of learning

thank you for humbling me

thank you for helping me trust others enough to open myself again

thank you for helping me see the good in people again

thank you for helping me find deep gratitude for life

thank you for teaching me how to pronounce coax

thank you for making me hopeful that I will find love

thank you for having been there for me so many times

thank you for one of the most significant years of growth and learning in my life

thank you for the kindnesses I failed to mention and perhaps didn’t see

and know that I am deeply, truly grateful.

thank you.

good bye