To my single Mom,

You did it. All that I am, all that I have, and all that I’ve learned is because of you. You are my entire childhood. And for that, I could never say thank you enough. You gave up so much to be able to give me the best. Things didn’t work out the way you had planned, but that didn’t stop you from being so selfless.

Thank you for raising me to be independent. Because of you I see that I can do anything on my own. I watched you pull our lives together, no matter how difficult it was at times. You taught me by example and for that I will always look up to you.

Because of our hardship, we unfortunately had to make sacrifices. Thank you for emphasizing education above all else. Instead of the expensive vacations and new clothes, you made it possible for me to travel, explore and learn. You taught me the value of experiences, instead of material things. You shared a sense of adventure that has changed my life forever. You instilled in me a drive to be the best I can. You showed me that if there's a will, there is a way.

You followed your heart and showed me the importance of doing the same. You always knew what was best for us in the long run. No matter how impossible it seemed, we persevered. You didn’t let anything get in the way of our goals. We were always happy, always safe and always loved. The home you created gives an air of assurance and positivity. The nature of your being seeps into every aspect of our lives.

You had to be both my mom and dad at times; playing the role of the good cop and the bad cop. As soft and sensitive as you are when I’m hurt, you protect me like a mother bear does with her cubs. I hope to have this bravery as I grow up.

You taught me what love is. No, I didn’t grow up with a picture-perfect marriage to aspire to, but looking back I see what you’ve done for me. Love is selfless. Love is unconditional. Love is about sacrifice. Your irreplaceable love has shown me how I hope to someday love my family, what ever it winds up to be.

And lastly, thank you for being our team captain. You’ve lead me to where I am today and have influenced my character for the better. The remarkable attributes you wear so well give the people in your life something to aspire to. I will never be able to fully put into words the amount of gratitude and love I have for my mom. I could never capture her hard work, selfless love and leadership in a piece of writing. A mother is simply immeasurable by any and all standards. Cheers to the everyday superheros, and the woman I aspire to one day be like. Cheers to you, Mom.