Mommy. I've called you that since I was able to speak and I still call you that to this day. that's what you're saved in as on my phone and forever in my heart. Since the day, I was born you've sacrificed your entire life for me and to ensure my happiness. You sent me to college seven states away knowing that you'll only get to see me a few times a year but you knew that I wanted to come to school here for a reason and you backed me up 110%. Everyone would say that you're crazy and how could you ever send your only child to school so far away from home. You responded with confidence "This is what she wants and she wants a better life for herself and I. I sent her to college so she doesn't have to settle for a grocery job like myself. I put up with too much at this job and I want her to do better than me." When customers would see how proud you are to have sent me to college so far and notice my strength to be so far away from you. You were there when no one else was and have supported me in everything I do.You sacrificed your budget in order for me to graduate from a great high school in a wealthy town when you are not wealthy. The day of graduation you smiled just as big as I did. I wasn't the only one graduating. You were graduating too because throughout all of the projects, assignments, worksheets, and shopping. you were the only one to support everything. When I walked across the stage, so did you. You taught me to love my culture and country. You sent me to Haiti at three years old and everyone criticized you and said that you're crazy for sending a baby like that to a country so dangerous. you responded confidently "Haiti is my country and she has to go there to experience her culture and learn the language". For three consecutive summers, I went to Haiti for vacation and learned the language so well that I completely forget English.As a young adult, I'm thankful that you sent me to Haiti because now I know how to speak creole although I've forgotten a lot of it, I can speak enough of it to have a friendly conversation. When I was younger and the adults at church would ask me "Sak Pase" I would confidently and full of joy respond "Nap Boule" (creole for 'what's up?' and 'nothing much"). I don't think I can live without Diri Kole ak pwa and legume or griot. I'll always love banana soda and the vibrant blue and red flag of Haiti. I showcase my pride to be Haitian-American as much as possible. I can never keep a straight face when talking to you because your humor will always tickle my funny bone. I appreciate every sacrifice you've done for me and I love you so much.
Mwe Remnem'w anpile pour tout lavi mwen
Love,
Guerslande
