Mom, there are so many things I have to thank you for and I'm not sure any words can ever express the gratitude I have for you, but I can try.

First, thank you for being more than just my mom, thank you for being my best friend. There have been times in my life that I didn't fit in and I was never Miss Popularity, but I was never alone. I always had you, and that was all I ever needed.

Thank you for always having faith in me, especially when I didn't have any in myself. Whether it was a test at school, a job interview or a college application, you always believed in me. Whenever I doubted myself you assured me I would succeed and I can't thank you enough for that.

Thank you for allowing me to make my own mistakes. I know it must be hard to watch your children make decisions that you know are not the right ones, but I'm glad you let me make all of those wrong decisions. Each wrong turn has led me to where I am in life and has shaped me into who I am. And I owe that to you.

Thank you for teaching me to be strong and independent. You have taught me that not only can I do anything I put my mind to, but I can do it all by myself. And for the times I feel like I can't do it alone, you're always there to help me push through.

Thank you for teaching me to be kind. You have shown me how important it is to be caring and gentle in this sometimes cold world.

Thank you for loving me unconditionally, even on my worst days. We both know I am not always the easiest person to be around, and I'm sorry for all the times I am the worst version of myself, I know you have taught me better.

Thank you for always being on my side, even when I'm wrong. I am so lucky to always have you in my corner.

You are all of the things I hope to be one day, Mom. You are smart. You are beautiful. You are strong. You are kind. You carry the weight of the world on your shoulders and never let it show. You go above and beyond for everyone you love and even some you don't. Your strength is inspiring, you are my very own super hero.

I am so many things because of you, Mom. I am kind. I am strong. I am smart. I am here to take some of that weight of your shoulders, Mom. We are in this together, every step of the way. It's you and me against the world.

I know you have become so accustomed to putting everyone else before yourself, but I want you to promise me one thing. Promise me you will never forget how important and special you are, and how great of a job you are doing. I know there are days that it seems like everything is falling apart, but those are exactly the days I need you to remember how amazing you are. Those are the days I am most grateful for you, because you are the glue that holds us all together. I wouldn't be me without you, Mom. I hope one day I can be half the woman you are, and raise my own daughter/best friend.

They say becoming a mother is God's greatest gift, but I believe God already gave me the greatest gift when he gave me you, Mom.