As I am preparing a to start a new chapter in my life, heading off to college, I can't help but to reflect about the one person who has influenced my life the most, my Mom. It's hard sometimes to speak from the heart, so I decided to put my thoughts into writing. Here is what I came up with.

Dear Mom,

What can I say to the woman who gave me life? Let me just start by saying, "Thank you." Thank you for all the rides to cheer practice. Thank you for staying up late just to watch movies with me. Thank you for the shoulder to cry on. Thank you for giving me a roof over my head and a bed to sleep. Thank you for teaching me right from wrong. Thank you for leading me to God. Thank you so much for everything you have sacrificed for me.

I know you don't hear it enough, but you definitely deserve it. I know everyone brags about how they have the "Best Mom", but no other mom can out beat you. For as long as I can remember it has always been you and me against the world. I have watched you laugh, I have watched you cry, and most importantly, I have watched you grow spiritually. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be half the person I am today.

There is nothing I would want to change about you. I know we have arguments and fights; however, it is because I am just like you! I am thankful for that. Every time I get a compliment it is because of you. I love being told, "You look just like your mom", or "You remind me so much of your mom". What can I say, I get it from my mama. Thank you doesn't even do you any justice. You taught me so much over the years, and now that I am leaving for college, I want you to know I am so grateful for everything you have accomplished both in my life and yours. You are my superhero, my rockstar.

As I go away to school, I may not remember every word of advice you have given to me. But, one thing is for sure, I will remember every memory that we have shared together. When I grow up and have my own kids, I pray I turn out to be a mom just like you. Being a single mom, you have shown me how to raise a family all on your own without any help. You aren't just my mom, you have also stepped in to play the dad role, too. I am so blessed to be so close to you, and I wouldn't trade our closeness for anything in the world. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being my best friend, my role model, my Mom!

Love Your Daughter