Day 30 - Lance Marty

An appreciation letter for the man who raised me.

Dear Pops,

AKA: Boss,


AKA: Joe,

I was raised on trauma and survival, having been a ward of the Government from birth and bounced around through over 40 different homes, with the longest stay being in the Orphanage, stability and belongingness was merely something I saw on television. 

I never knew what it was to feel love, respect or genuine care; everything came with a cost. I came from a world where nobody did anything for nothing and the payment was due everyday.

I came to you in 1990, a broken, angry and mistrusting boy of 14 years old who had lived a lifetime of horror, violence and substance abuse. You did not see that; you saw beyond what I was and saw what I could be, you believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself.

Through your love, guidance and relentless support I began to see a better life was possible, even for an angry kid who could barely read or write. You showed me a non-violent way to live life, one where I could use my words and my writing instead of my fists. You taught me the power of knowledge over brute force and anger, and you inspired me to use my mind and experience as weapons to help others with their battles. But most importantly you taught me that I deserved to be loved and cared for; nobody had ever done that before, and I will forever be grateful. You stood by me through the darkest days of my life and were a constant light, encouraging me with words like, “when you’re at the bottom, there’s nowhere left to go but up”. 

You saved my life Joe, more than once, and I am the man I am today because of you. We may not be of the same blood, but you are my Father and I couldn’t have asked for a better Mentor and Best Friend.
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I follow your example in the work that I do today and still aspire to do nothing more than make you proud of me. I may not be able to change the world but with your guidance, I can change the world of others.

I Love You Pops,

Lance Marty , Edmonton, Alberta