Mom,
I tend to just get you the heartfelt cards for mother's day and your birthday because they usually sum it up pretty well and sound way more heartfelt than I could ever be. However, I want to just take a second to tell you how I really feel, the best I can (so bear with me).
Thank you for everything that you have done. Thank you for doing it all. Did you know that, on average 50% of all marriages end in divorce? That is insane. In other words, being a single parent is not an uncommon thing. You aren't alone, you haven't been, but you had to figure it out along the way. You had to make decisions on your own. The Hallmark cards could never sum up the gratitude and respect that I have for that. You were the sole person I relied on growing up to always be my shoulder to cry on, the one who made me feel better, the one who knocked sense into when I needed it, the one I could always fall back on, and the one who always believed in me. You never complained. You just did it, like a mom. You continue doing it everyday. Hopefully it's easier for you now, you made it through all the temper tantrums and bratty rebellious years. And look, I didn't turn out half bad either, right?
The way you made it through everyday with such grace is truly remarkable. You always put my needs before your own and you would never let a freak out or break down slip through the cracks. You successfully managed our little family, work, and all the individual events going on in your own life. I can hardly manage my own life alone as of now, so I can only imagine the struggle. Observing your perseverance over the years has taught me phenomenal lessons about work ethic, determination, and strength... not to mention love, friendship, and selflessness. You pulled off not only taking on the role of two parents but also my teacher, my best friend, and my inspiration.
In early elementary, when students are prompted with the question "who is your biggest hero?" The go-to answer is "Mommy" or "Daddy." While I may be grown now, you are still my greatest hero. You inspire me to be my own person, to work for the things I want, and to allow love into my life. Because of you, I want to be great. I can only hope to one day be half as great as you. I want to be the best version of myself because that is the way YOU raised me. What I want more than anything at this point is to simply make you proud. You are incredible.
Being a single parent was twice the work and twice the stress. However, I hope that I was able to provide you with twice the amount of hugs, kisses, and gratitude.
I love you,
Your Pride and Joy
