Dear Mom,

I watched you cook meals, clean the house, pack backpacks, and check homework. I watched you fold my laundry, decorate my room, and read to me. You were there when I succeeded and when I failed and when I wanted to give up (although you never let me). I see how hard you work and I know how much you give. I know that you are a true superstar and I want you to know, that I want to be like you. If only you knew how much you impact my life daily.

If only you knew how thankful I am for the countless hours you spent braiding and brushing my hair, putting my shoes on, and picking out my outfits. If only you knew how thankful I am that you took me to checkups, got my medicine when I was sick, and made me take vitamins. I am thankful for every time you would tuck me in, say prayers, and kiss me goodnight. Thank you for humbling me, teaching me that others come before me, and helping me lead with a servants heart. If only you knew how thankful I am for all that you do.

If only you knew how grateful I am that you didn't give me everything I wanted, but everything I needed. If only you knew how grateful I am for all the times that you let me try out new things. If only you knew how grateful I am for the countless hours of advice you have given me. I am grateful for the times you had to ground me, because it taught me. I am grateful for every note you have written me. I am grateful for all the questions you asked me because it showed me how to ask and listen. I am grateful that you drove me from place to place, taught me how to read, and gave me endless fun days. If only you knew how grateful I am for you.

If only you knew how much the birthday parties, the cakes you made, and the perfect presents meant to me. If only you knew how much my friends truly love you and how proud I am to call you mom. If only you knew how much I appreciated the hours you spent watching me in my passions, motivating me to persevere, and encouraging me when I thought I failed. If only you knew how grateful I am for the faith you helped me structure. It means so much to have you be a constant figure in my life, a constant shoulder to lean on, and a constant hand to hold. If only you knew how much you mean to me.

If only you knew how I saw you. If only you knew that your flaws are perfections to me. If only you knew that I never wished you away or thought you failed. If only you knew that you are my superhero, my doctor, my stylist, my teacher, my mentor. my best friend. If only you knew that I am a better person because of you. If only you knew that my values, morals, and goals were shaped because of you. I try my best, give it my all, and never let a loss tear me down because of you. If only you knew that you are a daily blessing that I cannot thank enough. If only you knew that my faith found its foundation because of you. If you only knew that I am the person I am today because of you. You have done it all, but you still can never truly understand how much it means to have you as my mom.

“I'll love you forever,
I'll like you for always,
As long as I'm living,
my (mother) you'll be.”

I know you love me mom, and I love you.