Leaving for college is both exciting and nerve-racking. I was excited for new beginnings, but I was nervous to have to face those new beginnings without my mom by my side. Sadly, when I left for college not only did I leave my mom, but I left my coach, my boss, and my hero as well. I'm in my second semester of college now. I get good grades, I have a job, I'm a collegiate athlete, I'm in Greek life, and I'd like to say I'm doing just fine. All thanks to you, so this one is for you, Mom.
Dear Mom,
Where do I even begin? I guess I should start at the beginning. First off, thank you for deciding to have another kid because I think that was honestly one of your best decisions you've ever made, no bias of course. Six weeks after I was born you introduced me to the sport I love almost as much as you, gymnastics. When I was 5 years old, you and I bonded over Velveeta mac 'n cheese and soap operas. A few years later, you made all my dreams come true when you took me to Disney.
Once I reached middle school, your roles as a mom shifted and I had more freedom, which meant more responsibilities. Luckily, you took on another role in my life: middle school gymnastics coach, where you taught me even more than before.
As I continued to grow up we never grew apart. With age, our bond became even stronger. Throughout my high school years, we were basically inseparable. At age 16, I got a job working at the YMCA, my second home, following in your footsteps. So now not only were you my mom and my coach but my boss as well. My schedule consisted of school, gymnastics, and work, which meant my schedule consisted of you, you, and you. Sure, I got frustrated with you, but I loved every second I got to spend with you. I know now that I took some of the time we spent together for granted, and I regret that.
In recent years, I've finally been old enough to hear some stories about when you were my age, and we've done some pretty fun things together. We even permanently inked our bodies to express our love for each other, so that counts as something, right? But in all seriousness, the most important message in this letter isn't about the great times we had and continue to have; the most important message is my thank-you for everything you've done for me. I have a plethora of things to thank you for.
Thank you for supplying me with the basic needs to survive. Thank you for supporting me in all that I do. Thank you for always loving me even when I don't deserve your love. Thank you for never giving up on me. Thank you for allowing me to be who I am. Thank you for giving me your selflessness. Thank you for giving me your kind heart. Thank you for being my hero, the person I look up to and turn to for inspiration and unconditional love. Most importantly, thank you for being my best friend. No one will ever take your place. I love you more than I can ever try to put into words.
Love,
Your daughter
