Photo creds: Oliver Rossi
As a child, it seems like most of the things that we were taught from our moms or motherly figures often went unnoticed. It’s not that we were unappreciative, rather it was more that as young girls we were unaware of the gifts we were being given. But now, after being away from school and our moms, we’re able to recognize all the amazing lessons that they have taught us.. So Mom, this one’s for you!
Thank you for teaching me how to be polite. College is a time when we encounter our first adult relationships without any parental guidance. I may be on my own in these situations, but your voice is always with me. I hear you reminding me to watch my posture, be enthusiastic, shake hands firmly, always speak up, and ask questions. The countless times you pushed me outside of my comfort zone to interact with people politely has allowed me to confidently present myself properly and maturely. This is true for table manners too. Although you may question me sometimes, I promise that I remember everything you taught me.
Thank you for teaching me that sometimes, you just need to take a step back. College is hard. It’s stressful. It’s overwhelming. But it’s important to always put everything into perspective. You taught me how lucky I am, and constantly remind me that the decisions I make each day are not a matter of life and death. When I feel I am sinking under the waves of what it means to be a college student, I think of you. I think of you and your calm presence, I take a breath, and I am able to reassess my priorities.
Thank you for teaching me that it is okay to put myself first. In college, it’s easy to forget about yourself as classes, work, sports, clubs, and friends often become central. As a child, you knew when I needed a rest, family time, or a little extra guidance. I may be away from home now, but when life becomes a whirlwind, I think of you. You taught me how to be strong and independent. You taught me how to be selfless yet also remember that in order to take care of others, I must always take care of myself.
Thank you for teaching me that it’s okay to mess up. You instilled in me the mentality that being sad, disappointed, or frustrated are all okay. They’re normal emotions. Throughout my childhood you have watched me fail, whether it was when I fell of my bike, missed a goal, or received a bad grade. You’ve helped me learn a lesson from each mistake I’ve made and taught me that it’s always important to try again. Time after time you picked me up and placed me back on my feet. You taught me that nobody’s perfect, but with a positive attitude you can always succeed, so that’s why I try to do.
So even though we may be miles apart, I never fail to think of you and everything that you have taught me over the years. Thank you for shaping me into the young woman I am today, I love you Mom!
Photo creds: Her Campus