It seems as though every year the world becomes more dangerous. I can't even imagine what it must be like to be a mother in 2016, especially a mother to a college-aged woman. This letter is to my mother as she constantly worries about me.

Dear Mom,

Remember when I turned 18 and I laughed when you gave me mace for my birthday? I grip it tightly on my way home from my night class. Remember when I turned 20 and you gave me a taser for my birthday? Even though I was initially scared of it, my roommate showed me how to use it and I carry it with me. Remember when I first talked to you about the guy I was dating, and you gave me brutally honest advice (that I thought I didn't need)? Now I am cautious of the men I trust.

You shouldn't have to give me these things to defend myself. You shouldn't have to worry about me being followed home from work. You shouldn't have to worry about me trusting the wrong person. You shouldn't have to tell me to be cautious and careful all the time.

You do.

Part of the reason that you have to worry is because I am a woman, a college student, and a member of a minority group. I wish that you didn't have to teach me to be safe. I wish that people did not have the intent to harm others, especially when they are most vulnerable.

You fear and you worry because unfortunately, the world can be a dangerous place. The world is filled with so much hatred. It pains me to hear you say that you never viewed yourself as a minority until my brother and I were grown. You lived your life safe from the hatefulness that now surrounds me...and it infuriates you. When I experience discrimination and hatred, I know it breaks your heart. It seems like there is almost no escaping it, especially with recent tension around the 2016 Presidential Election. I know you worry since I am away at college.

I don't want you to be afraid. I want you to know that you've raised a strong and courageous woman.There are so many things that are out of our control. There will always be bad things, scary things, unimaginable and horrible things that sometimes, I can't avoid. However, I am thankful to have you as a mother because you always taught me to live life without fear. Even though I can't always come home to you after a bad day, I know you're always just a phone call away.

You've given me so many life lessons and I am thankful for that. You are so much more than the woman who listens to my calls of distress and tells me how long I should cook a chicken for. You're my protector; my caregiver; my defender; my number one fan; the woman who will always stand up for me.

Thank you for everything you continue to do for me. Even though sometimes I don't listen, I know you're *almost* always right.

Love,

your daughter.