I remember the first day I met you.

I was hiding behind my mom, and you were a walk-in salesman attempting to sell a program to my dad. I remember all the things you've done for me. I remember all the places you've taken me. I remember all the things you've shown me. You took the place of my father when my father wasn't there. Which was pretty much always. The only reason I'm even normal is because of you. Because you taught me the things my father should have taught me. You were the one who taught to me ice skate. You were the one who took me to my ballet lessons, gymnastic practices and ice skating practices. You were the one who taught me to whistle and snap. You were the one who took me to Borders after ballet lessons. You taught me to love reading. You taught me to stay true to myself. You spoiled me with love and knowledge. You constantly reminded me to love music. You gave me my first guitar and my first keyboard. You gave me my first laptop. You were with me every step of the way. Although you live in another place now, you're still in my heart. I remember all the mean things I've said before and I'm sorry. The ability to admit that I was wrong is the first sign of maturity. I remember the countless shoes, shirts and jeans you've bought me. You've shown me the importance of being a kind human being. You've taught me to use my brain and try hard in school. You taught me everything my father should have. You're the reason I am who I am. You're the one who kept me sane and kept me from becoming a bad kid. You took me to my first farmer's market. You sat beside me on my first subway ride. You took me to ride my first train. You taught me how to ride a bicycle. You taught me to be unafraid. You taught me to be a righteous person. You gave me ointment for my scar. You remember my birthday and never forget to call. You call whenever a big holiday comes around and you taught me to memorize things. You have never failed to miss my birthday. You took me to my haircuts, and swim practices. You've taught me how to accept other cultures and different people. You've taught me to love different kinds of foods. You've done practically everything a father should have done.

And for that I thank you.