Dear Mom,

Sometimes I don’t feel like I say it enough, so first off, I do love you. I know it may, at times, not seem like it, but this is because with my differing personality I tend to express affection a lot differently. Some may call my version of love “tough love,” but trust me, I do care very much about you.

I am thankful. You have given me a home, life, love, support and so much more over the course of my entire time here on earth. I know you don’t expect a “thank you” with every little gesture, but for all that you do, I feel that I constantly fall short of saying it enough.

As you know, I’m very thick headed, and I’m eternally grateful you put up with it. There are many times where we seem to disagree, but that's only because I see things from other perspectives that you are seeing from a completely different perspective.

Honestly, I have no idea how you tolerate me, but I hope to inherit the acceptance and patience that you have for me when I become a parent someday; you may have to teach me your ways.

You raised me strong, gave me the ability to conquer anything and the acceptance for the skin I’m in. Without you, I have no idea what I would do when faced with times of turmoil. From you, I have gained faith and an open mind; which I must say comes in handy.

You taught me how to find understanding and have given me the ability to tolerate others, even though sometimes we just want to punch them in the face. You also gave me the gift of empathy and discernment so that I am able to help others when truly in need. Without you, I most likely would lack these important qualities that make me who I am today.

Mom, I know through the years, I have given you a run for your money, but I don’t think either of us would want it any other way.

To the moon and back,