I received this e-mail today, it made me cry.

A wise man once said, "We are what we are because we are what we are."
Sounds dumb doesn't it?? But, try to relate it your own situation.
Jenny is what she is because SHE decided long ago to do what she loves today.
Aly is what she is because SHE decided their was something more she wanted to accomplish.
Meggy is what she is because SHE decided not to let adversity stop her.
You all are what you are because you are all strong, determined individuals who decided that you will not let anything stand in your way.
And, because of that, I am extremely proud of each of you.

Love
Dad

To which I respond:
I am what I am because my parents loved me.