Dear Mommy,

For the 18 years you’ve raised me, I am forever grateful. You’ve taught me love, patience, and never to be hateful. You’ve accepted me for me without question. And taught me to reflect when I didn’t quite get the lesson. Your words are like kisses when they reach my ear. No matter where you are—you always keep me near. 

I will forever love you. 

Forever. 

Like a pirate on a mission, I found my most valuable treasure. 

Your soul is like no other.

You forgive. Even when facing the truth makes it a little harder to live. 

You are strong. Learned to carry on even when all things have went wrong. 

Your smile is always the highlight of my day. Sometimes I look at you and don’t know what to say. 

You amaze me. And one day I’ll point to you telling my kid, “Look! That woman raised me.”