To my mother, my best gal-pal, my drinking buddy and my biggest fan—you are loved. I can never thank you enough, and I could not have asked for a better role model. You have given me so much to live for, and so much ambition. You deserve the world, because you gave me the world.

When I was younger, I didn’t understand why I didn’t have a dad like everyone else, but I now vie this as a blessing in disguise. When it came to raising a child, you had to learn so much on your own. You worked so hard to give me the things I wanted and needed; sometimes you gave me rewards that I really didn’t earn. You were the mom and the dad that you didn’t have to be. You sacrificed your own freedom and spare time so that I could have a happy childhood. From every soccer game to every cheer competition, you were there front and center. I knew I could always talk to you if I had a problem or issue that was difficult to overcome. You always gave the best advice. You pushed me to do things outside of my comfort zone, and it has greatly influenced my confidence as a person. It means so much to me that I can look back on those fond memories and know that I was, and still am, unconditionally loved.

I know now that you gave up so much for me, but I never said thank you. You taught me right from wrong, and you taught me how to love. I learned values from you that I sometimes don’t see in others, and they all have made me grow into a stronger person. You gave me all of your time and your wisdom. You taught me to never give up on a dream, no matter how far out of reach. It didn’t matter that I couldn’t play catch outside with my dad. I played outside with my mom. You sat in that lawn chair, patiently, as I flipped on the trampoline over and over again, never once asking me to stop. You gave me other knowledge as well, like cooking a great rice and gravy, or how to fold a fitted sheet. These little moments may not have seemed like the greatest milestones to you, but they have made an incredible impression in my memory.

You were there for me and for anyone else who needed help. I saw your generosity, not only with family but also with friends or even strangers. I saw your faith and your strength, and it gave me ambition to work harder for the things I believed in. Your selflessness and empathy makes you a blessing to those around you, but especially in my eyes. You became my role model. You never judged or belittled me for my wrongdoings. Instead, you helped me learn from my mistakes, and you taught me to move forward in a better direction. I wondered how one person could give so much and ask for so little in return. I wondered how one person could be so beautiful inside and out. I wondered what would I do if I didn’t have such an amazing mother.

One day, I want to be the daughter who can make you proud of my accomplishments. One day, we’ll both look back and laugh about the silly things that happened along the way. One day, hopefully soon, you’ll realize just how great of a mom and dad you have been.

“You are my spirit, my influence towards success. There is no replacement of you. You are, and always will be, my best friend. I love you my dearest mother.”