I honestly don’t even know where to begin. What do you say to the woman who has given you everything she could possibly muster since the day you were born? I am constantly thanking her for everything she does for me, but it never satisfies me, because how I could possibly thank her enough?

She provided for me from day one. She never missed a sporting event and never missed an honor’s assembly. In elementary school, she picked me up every day because I was scared to ride the bus. She watched The Lion King with me every single day when I was three; no matter how tired she got of it, she knew it was my favorite movie. She took me on vacations so that, even at a young age, I was able to experience more of the world. She has given me the best life any single mom could possibly give their daughter, and I am eternally grateful.

She is my definition of a superhero. I’ve never had to worry that she wouldn’t pick up the phone, and I know that any time I need her, she’ll be there as fast as humanly possible. Raising me on her own, this woman is the epitome of strength and selflessness.

So, Mom, here’s a few things I want you to hear:

I’m sorry I was so difficult during high school. I want to blame on the “15-year-old girl” stereotype of just being a brat, but I could have done better.

Thank you for always having my back. I never had to worry about being alone, because you’ve always been there, and I am so beyond grateful for that.

I appreciate your strictness when I was growing up. I realize now how immensely that affected my character, in the best way possible.

I thank God for you every day, and I constantly pray that I grow to be half the woman that you are. You have given me the best life that a single mother could possibly give, and please never think that I take that for granted.