Songwriting - From a songwriting perspective, I thought the tune was OK. I enjoyed it, but found it a little predictable. But it was certainly in line with the power ballad genre.
Production - Good job (although I'd can the whistling). The production is right on target. You did great with the equipment you have. I think the strings sound fine. You get a bit busy with them in some parts and that's where they sound midi-ish ... and, yeah, the piano sounds midi-ish too.
Mix - I'm listening at work with headphones - so this review is biased as a result. I think the mix is good. No complaints (although I'm ignoring the distortion you warned about). Vocal sounds good and sits nicely.
Let it Be - Ha !! "Let It Be" is one of the few piano songs I can play as well.
I'll check out some of your other stuff tonight from home.
Enjoyed it.
BPOCO