Mom,

I tell you that I love you all the time, but I always neglect to tell you how much I admire you.

In my lifetime, you have watched me grow and change and learn, and I have watched you do the same. You've questioned, you've challenged, you've persevered. So many people are stuck in their ways, but not you. You are always looking for ways to do better and be better.

You know the value of reflection and understanding. I can be stubborn, but you have reminded me to listen to new perspectives, and to keep an open heart and an open mind. You have confronted your own beliefs and questioned your own principles just to make sure that I feel loved.

You have taught me to place the love I have for others above all else, and to think about how my actions will affect those around me. You have encouraged me to put good into the world purely for the sake of doing good.

Every day I am in awe of your compassion and the faith you have in others. It drives you and it gives you strength. You have done things harder than anyone should ever have to do, and done them without complaint. You have stood tall with the weight of the world on your shoulders, finding a way to be grateful for the challenge.

You are a beacon of kindness and goodness to everyone around you. You have reminded me every day that I am seen, I am accepted, and I am loved. You have inspired me to try to make others feel the same way. When I am feeling lost and directionless, I remember what you taught me and I regain my footing again. I will never have the words to thank you for all that you have done, or to tell you how much your strength has impacted me. Everything I am is because of you.

Love,

Your daughter