Ever since I was a kid, I went to my mom for absolutely everything. How to tie my shoes, what outfit I should wear to the birthday party of the weekend, and whether or not I could buy the new headband at Claire's. Though some things have changed since then, I still ask for her opinions on what to wear or if I can buy something new. She is my biggest supporter, my confidant, and my best friend. She always knows what to say and when to say it, but most importantly, she knows how to say it. As a mom, her job is to make sure her children all well-fed, safe, and happy. Moms come with tons of advice for their children in any given situation, but it's up to us on whether or not we take that advice.

Always listen to your mom. She knows more than you think she does.

Throughout most of our teenage and young adult lives, we believe we can do it all on our own. We want to assure our independence immediately and make each decision without the help of anyone else, but most specifically our mothers. We grew up having them right beside us to catch us during the falls. Every tear was wiped away by them, but somehow, we forget how much they have shaped our lives as we grew up. We can oftentimes take advantage of this idea that our moms will always be there for us. Though it may be true, we should remember their intentions for us.

A mother only wants what is best for her children. She wants her children to make decisions that will positively benefit themselves and those around them. She is willing to do anything and everything to ensure that happiness is the only outcome. I recognized this attribute within my own mother this past year. Whenever I felt unhappy or was experiencing some type of problem that wasn't resolving itself as quickly as I had hoped, my mother took the burden as well. All she wanted was for me to find happiness and take the steps towards achieving that. Because of her patience and advice, I was always able to come back stronger than before, despite the problem at hand. Because of my mom, I feel wise. She has instilled so much knowledge within me throughout my life and I feel much more prepared because of it.

The next time you talk to your mom, say thank you.

I will never be able to say those two words enough times to my mom, but I feel lucky to think in such a way. I am blessed to come from a close-knit family filled with selflessness and love. My sister and father all agree that we have my mother to blame for that. I have never seen a woman work so hard each day while being able to put a home cooked meal on the table each night. She is the woman that I aspire to become.

Mom, if you're reading this, I appreciate everything. Thank you.

Even when you feel as if your mom is pushing you too much to get involved in extracurriculars or asking too many questions about your day, take a moment to appreciate your time with her. There may be days where you don't get along, but in the end, she loves you more than anything.