Dear Mr. and Mrs. Khan,

We have never met.  I am from the Midwest, northern Illinois to be specific.  I have been politically active my entire adult life.  My father used to take me with him to the polls on election day to show me what he was doing was important.  He would say that when I became an adult I would understand why.  We would watch State of the Union speeches, press conferences, and any manner of event where dad thought I would learn anything.  Like any kid I didn’t know why he was so adamant about the concept. Now, I know he was right to do the things he did for me.

While a moderate, I am a member of the Democratic Party. This year I watched both conventions, for the RNC and DNC.  Like most, I saw a dramatic difference between ideologies.  It is important for me that I see both views and then make an informed choice.

On night 3 of the DNC Convention, I was in awe.  When you both came onto the stage, and you spoke, I was proud and smiling, while in tears all at the same moment. I heard you remind the American people what we are fighting for, no matter what side we all may be on.

I was also pleased and honored to witness both of you speaking eloquently during interviews about your love for this country, how you found your home by migrating to the US. I, like many millions in this country, and countless around the world, were moved beyond words.

As the daughter of a veteran, I am so sorry for your loss. No parent should lose a child.  Especially the way you lost your. But your son is a hero.  In the words of Abraham Lincoln, your son gave his ‘last full measure of devotion’ to the country he loved.  He had that love of country because of you.

Thank you for your courage.  Thank you for your honor.  Thank you for your compassion.  Thank you for your passion.  Knowing that I share this great nation with a family of the caliber of yours makes me proud.  The way you have been able to over come your sorrow and grief to stand up for what you, as many, know to be the right thing to do, makes you a hero to me.

Thank you.