First off, I just wanted to let you know that I love you very much. Despite our differences in recent times, you are still my son, whom I love dearly. I remember when you were young you wanted to be just like me; listening to every word and following all my advice with a passion. I have watched you grow to a young man of eighteen, and am still just as proud of you as the day you were brought home from the hospital. In recent years, you have come into your own right, and my opinion has come to matter much less in your decisions. As much as it hurts me, I know that at your age you need to stand on your own feet. However, as you approach the end of your senior year in High School, I must disagree with your current path to start directly working rather than enroll in school. College is essential in our world today. I know that school seems dull, but I don't think you understand how essential it is for a successful and financially stable life in future years. Growing demands in an increasing technical world means that there is always a market for possible employees with efficient education. Working may help plump up your pockets now, but it will definitely short change you in the long run. All I am asking of you now, is that you take a few minutes to read what I have to say; remember the time you once hung on every word I said, give me your full attention just one more time.
             Like I said before, I completely support you making your own decisions, and I am especially proud that you do want to take so much responsibility in your young life. The fact that you want to start working full time shows me how much you have truly grown. I appreciate the fact that you want to take some of the financial burden unto your own shoulders, it is very mature of you. Most people who graduate high school still depend on their parents for years after their graduation. I am somewhat amazed at the fact that you want to become a man so fast. ...