It’s happened again. May is upon us and Mother’s Day looms just a few days away. Of course, we all plan the requisite brunch, dinner, daytime activities and gifts. I have learned, from both sides of the fence, that it isn’t about the gift certificates, fancy dinners, and baskets of bath bombs. I have a collection of handmade cards and letters from my three amazing kids (did I mention how awesome they are?) along with a few prized homemade gifts. This year, I am writing a letter to my mother, the reason for my existence and the one who is unconditionally my best cheerleader in life. I hope it inspires you to write a letter too.
Dear Mom,
During my lifetime, you’ve always been much more than “just” my mother. You’ve been my role model, confidant, and partner for impromptu sing-alongs on road trips. We laugh at inappropriate antics and cry at sappy Hallmark movies. You taught me to love books and open my mind to my creative side. Today, you’re a constant source of support and encouragement, and your presence in my life makes me and my children better people. But in my earliest memories, you were merely Mom – the one who cared for me above all in the universe.
I need to say thank you.
Thank you, Mom, for always being my biggest fan at every stage of my life. I couldn’t ask for a better cheerleader and support. Thank you for knowing when I was a spoiled brat and for teaching me right from wrong; for teaching me how to make my way among people with class, conviction, and morality. I know I didn’t appreciate the spankings or the timeouts back then, but I know it played a big part in forming my character, and that I am better off having learned early on how to behave in society. Thank you for holding me when I cried and for promising me better tomorrows. Even if they were a long time in coming, knowing you believed it made me believe.
Mom, you have been my constant rock through significant life decisions (even the wrong ones), and you carried me when I thought I couldn’t go on and move forward. Thank you for being so sneaky and becoming my best friend, my most caring confidant and road trip warrior. Thanks for always making time for me, no matter how many times a day I need to call. And thank you for teaching me the value of respect not only towards others but myself as well.
Thank you for always believing in me. There is nothing I want more than to know you are proud of me. Thank you for understanding when things didn’t go as well as I hoped, or according to my plan. Thank you for not giving up on me, especially during those rough teen years, I know it wasn’t easy, and I didn’t help to make it comfortable. Thank you for keeping me grounded. You never hesitate to remind me where I came from and sometimes, even now, I need that reality check.
Thank you for teaching me the importance of hard work. You worked so hard to give me the most fabulous life possible; you also reminded me that everything in life has a price tag, and nothing in life is free, except for faith and a mother’s love. You have always pushed me to be the very best version of myself and to work hard for the things I want, instead of just to expect them. Thank you for making me independent, and teaching me to rely on myself and my strengths. Every single day, I become more confident in myself, and it’s been a long, hard and lonely road. But I always knew you would be there by my side.
You said to make sure I could be financially and emotionally stable on my own; I see now that you couldn’t have been more correct. You taught me to fight for everything that I believe in and never to back down. I wasn’t always strong enough, but because of you, I am not afraid to stand up for my beliefs. I inherited my convictions from watching you, (although we aren’t always on the same page) and I think I’m a better person because of it.
The role of a mother is all-consuming, overwhelming, and profound. And I get it now, Mom. I love you, Mom. You’re my role model, and even though I laughed at everyone who told me this would happen, you’re my best friend. Sometimes, I know I get busy, but you are so appreciated. After having my children, I need to tell you how grateful I am for all the love, support, compassion and kindness you’ve provided throughout my life. Thank you again for being my caregiver when I was young and for being my inspiration, my friend, and my biggest fan. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today if it weren’t for you. So, thank you – for absolutely everything. You’re my hero.
Stay motivated and caffeinated.