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 little things can be the special things 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 have to help take care of each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people
who had nothing, and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I felt you kiss me good night,
and I felt loved and safe.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it,
and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.

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 have to be responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt,
but it's all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared,
and I wanted to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know
to be a good and productive person when I grow up.

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.'"

Source Unknown, ed. M.M.