Dear Mom and Dad,
I know that you are the ones that brought me here on earth and I really appreciate that, but I don't think I am that much trouble. I just heard that there is an estimate that the average cost of raising a child to the age of eighteen is $150,000. I think I am totally worth it. Don't you? There are many reasons. I mean, isn't it great having a child like me? I get good grades, I am a nice person, and I am good to you guys.
School is very important to me and I work hard to get good grades. I know that good grades are important if I am to be successful in my life. Good grades mean good effort and I always try to give 100 per cent in the effort department. I also know that an education can be very valuable to me in whatever I pursue. I also know how happy it makes you guys when I bring home a good report card.
I think I am worth every penny of the $150,000. Sure it is a lot of money but I am worth it, probably even more than that. I am a nice person. I treat people with respect and courtesy. I love people. I am nice to people and animals, and I care about others. I am not selfish. At least I am not a snob that just cares about myself or some lazy girl that sits and watches the T V all day. I try to be friendly to everyone and involved in many things. I know that when I leave the house I am representing my family, and I know that I will always make you proud.
I may not always clean my room, and I probably fight too much with my brother and sister, but I always try to be helpful and loving to you guys. I think that I do the best job of cleaning the kitchen in our family. I know how grateful you are when I make a meal or bake some cookies. All right, I may not do it often enough, but I do try to please!
Just think about it. Wait until you guys are older. I am the one that will use my great career to support you guys. Right now you should be encouraging me to start thinking of what I am going to be when I grow up (don't worry you are). Some day my dreams will come true and it will be because you gave me the strength to reach for them. If I am worth $150,000, then you are worth $1,000,000.
This essay was written on 2/11/98.