Growing up, the two most common words that usually come from a child’s mouth are Mom and Dad. We say those words when we may be in need of attention or comfort. They help us dodge any curve ball life may throw our way, whether as a child or a college student. We turn to them in all situations, expecting them to catch all of our problems in their gloves of security and love. They’re supposed to be your coach- there to motivate and guide you as you grow while becoming more and more independent.

Have Your Voice Heard: Become an Odyssey Creator

Even though both parents have their strengths, sometimes moms go unnoticed. Actually, some of them are very strong. Especially when they have up to three birds in their nest, constantly chirping for food, attention, and lessons on how to fly.

Being a single Mom isn’t easy. Let me tell ya about someone in my life, whom I proudly call Mom, that has jumped numerous obstacles throughout my lifetime, trying to be the very best that she could be, raising and shaping me into the person I am today.

Mom’s do most of the dirty work, if you will.

Not all heroes wear capes, but if there was anyone who came close to it, it was my mom. Not only was she a single mom that had a full time job and provided for my sisters and me, she is a police officer who works stressful shift work schedules and still manages to make sure we were happy, and tended to. From one rent house to the next, she still stood her ground and pressed forward. She not only had to deal with her own issues, but also mine, my sisters and the people she faced out on the streets day in and day out. Growing up, my mom made the executive decisions, and answered as mom and dad.

She is easily one of the coolest people I know, and one I can easily call one of my best friends.

“Mom, I can’t thank you enough for being the absolute best mom a daughter could ask for. You have been there not only for me, but also my sisters. You have not once failed us, and for that I am truly grateful. Even when times were hard back when it was just the four of us. Those were some good times, but also some rough times. Although rough, that’s when you shined the most in my eyes. I learned the ability to mature at such a young age, because I wanted to be “your little helper” and be there for you in the times of desperation and weariness. I realized a lot back then, whether you knew it or not. At a young age I felt like I was older, wiser and braver. I always wanted to be strong for you, to show you I cared and could handle adversity. There were some dark days, but because of all those moments and the diverse hardships, I truly believe not only I, but you are stronger and wiser to this day. God is mighty and works in mysterious ways. I learned a lot from the best, what can I say.”