Although my pockets are empty, my heart is full. I have grown past making those typical crafts out of construction paper and having the table covered in glue. I have not yet gotten my life together to the point where I can take you to expensive restaurants for your favorite steaks or take you on expensive shopping sprees.

Like my pockets, my dear mother, allow me to empty my heart, to you. I may not have lived long enough to have even grazed the surface of what it feels like to fall into the pits of depression or what it feels like to meet your wit's end. I have, unfortunately, seen you in this state, and although there were many times you'd want to pull your hair out or give up, you managed to save quite a few strands. Instead of telling you thank you and explaining my gratitude for all you have done for me, I want to thank you for what you have done for yourself.

You may not see them, but your accomplishments each day are admirable to observe. Your timid and frail footsteps are carefully yet strategically placed, and I follow close behind. The way you prevail through your obstacles is inspirational and motivates me each day.

Like most, you have your shortcomings and traits that aren't the most favorable. You preach to me about your realization at the amazing person I've grown to be, but I have always known and seen the beautiful person you are and continue to become. You gripe at the thunderstorms you're going through, but rain is needed to create your rainbow.

My pockets are empty, Mom, but my heart is full. It is full of the appreciation that when you fall, you dust yourself off and walk as if you've never fallen. It is full of admiration for the way you make so much out of nothing.

Whether you realize it or not, you're a wonderful sight and bring so much to the table. What you have to offer outweighs your faults. Your creative insults to yourself are never great enough to dim the light I've known you to emit. The things you want, I cannot afford, and the things you deserve, I cannot fathom. My pockets may be empty, but my heart is full.