Age 13, South Dakota, USA

Dear Dad,
I know what you must be thinking: ‘What are you talking about? I love you and I know you love me.’

I know you miss me. I know that I only see you once every two weeks. I know that I’m a horrible person for not making an effort to see you.

You were an alcoholic. You put me and my sisters in danger. You were a monster in my eyes. I took my mom’s side and we kicked you to the curb. You may not remember, but I packed your clothes and boots into a box in the kitchen and told you that you weren’t wanted here. I have come to realize that you drink to forget your unhappiness. You weren’t happy being with Mom, and I blamed you for that.

We are closer now. We text each other almost every day and I love coming to your house. You would do anything for me and I get that now. I just wanted a chance to say that I love you and I’m sorry for not visiting more often. I love you, Daddy.