When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator,

and I immediately wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw you feed a stray cat,

and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw you make my favorite cake for me,

and I learned that the little things can be very special in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick,

and I learned that we all need to help take care of each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw you give your time and money to help people who had nothing,

and I learned that everyone can make a difference.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it,

and I learned the importance of FAMILY.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good,

and I learned that I would need to be responsible when I grew up.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I sometimes saw tears come from your eyes,

and I learned there are things that can hurt, yet it's O.K. to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I saw that you truly cared about people,

and I wanted to be everything that I could possibly be

to follow in your footsteps.

When you thought I wasn't looking...

I looked at you and wanted to say,

"Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking."

Author Unknown