As I got older, hearing someone say, "you're just like your mother," made me force a chuckle while I rolled my eyes in my head. The last thing a kid wanted to hear was that they were just like the person that yelled at them to clean their room, destroyed their plans with friends, or didn't let them buy that dress they wanted in the store. For the longest time, I didn't understand what everyone was referring to until I grew up, graduated from high school and moved away from home to go to college. And suddenly, being "just like your mom" was the only phrase that ensured me I was right where I belonged.

I'm just like my mom because she's a hard-worker.

I learned that you don't give up when things get rough but instead you push harder to ensure that the end result you hoped for becomes a reality.

I'm just like my mom because she's a fighter.

She's always fought for what she believed was right. I learned to never give in but to keep fighting and defending myself.

I'm just like my mom because she has a goal for me.

I was always told to have a plan, goal, and vision for myself. Everything I do should help me develop and challenge myself until I achieve said goal.

I'm just like my mom because she's strong.

The amount of weight my mom can carry is scary but because of it, I'm not afraid of it. I've learned to be strong enough to overcome it. Nothing can hold me back.

I'm just like my mom because she's caring.

She always puts others first. In my own life, contributing to the happiness of others bring me my own happiness.

I'm just like my mom because she loves with her whole heart.

I never knew someone could have so much love. And because of my mother, I have learned to how show those close to me how much I love and appreciate them.

So now the phrase, "you're just like your mother," only makes me smile. If I can be half the woman my mother is, I'd be set for life. She is my foundation and because of her I am a hard-worker, a fighter, a dreamer, strong, caring, and loving.

I'm just like my mom because I am my mother's child. And I couldn't be more honored.