Dear Mom,

I can’t imagine my life without you. Sometimes my mind goes there, and I get really really sad. For my whole life you have been there. You have been a big part of it. And not ever in an obsessive over bearing sort of way. But always just enough. Always just what I needed.

You taught me how to work hard for everything I wanted in life. You taught me to do my best at everything. You taught me about sacrificing myself for others. You showed me that if something is broken to be a part of the solution to fix it.

You always told me I was beautiful. I heard you and I believed it. You always made me feel loved and important. You taught me how to love myself for who I am.

You always support me in every thing I do. You never doubt me. You believe in me when I don’t believe in myself. You cut through the crap and the lies I tell myself and bring out truth. You speak truth to me always. Never fluff.

Even at 42, I still call you when I am sad. And you always listen and you always help me feel better. I don’t have to worry about being real with you. I can always be myself. You know where I struggle, and you don’t ever judge, but gently guide me through.

There were times in my life when I didn’t understand things you did for others. Times when I didn’t agree with your choices. Times when I wished you did things differently. But I guess that’s normal. As I grow older and experience parts of life that you once did, I see your point of view. I understand more why you made certain choices and sacrifices.

I eat well because of you. I don’t take for granted what I have because of you. I use what I have to make things work because of you. I am resourceful because of you. I am kind to others because of you.

You have extended your love to my husband, my son, and even my friends. You bring me apple pie unexpectedly. You make inappropriate jokes sometimes. You take care of yourself and not just others. You love God.

I couldn’t have asked for a better example and supporter in my life. And I didn’t have to. God gave me that gift. He decided you would be my Mom. He did good.

I love you Mom!

Lori