Growing up you tend to put this heroic curtain in front of your parents. You don't let yourself notice all of the wrinkles and gray hair they've acquired. It's easier this way, it hurts less to believe that they aren't aging or growing old. But if you take a second and pull back the curtain you realize that every wrinkle, every gray hair has a story. Those laugh lines, are for every time you've made them laugh or smile. The dark circles under their eyes; from all of their sleepless nights worrying about something, you or the bills or someone's well-being. The soaring eagles on their forehead from every time you've shocked them with news, or they've had to give you 'the look'. All those gray hairs from every one of your firsts, first step, first sleep over, first date, first car, first day of college etc. The wear and tear left on their face, it all tells the tale of the life they've led. Everything they've overcome, everything you've overcome together. There's so much to be thankful for. That's why you put up the curtain, the curtain of parental heroism; because it's what they are. They're heroes. Everything they sacrifice and endure just for the well-being of their children, now that's amazing. So take the time, take a second to look at your parents for who they truly are, for everything they've done. Thank them. Thank your parent, parents, grandparent, aunt or uncle, guardian anyone who has helped you on your journey. Let them know that you are aware, and appreciate everything they've done. Keep making them proud, make sure everything they've done was worthwhile.