Dear Mom,
Happy Mother’s Day! It’s special days like this that make me wish I went to school closer to home.
For our family, Mother’s Day has traditionally been a barbeque at Auntie’s filled with gifts and flowers from Tommy, Erica, and I to all of the strong women in our lives. But, for me, Mother’s Day has always meant something a little more because you are more than just my mother.
For the past twenty years, you have had the job of both mother and father to us. You have supported me, guided me, loved me, and cared for me. You have gone above and beyond the traditional role of a mother. You have sacrificed so much for me. I cannot recall a time that I didn’t have something I needed or wanted. You have paid my school tuition for the past 17 years. When I first said that I wanted to go to a school across the country, you did not even flinch. You have given me almost everything I have ever wanted.
For the past twenty years, Father’s Day has never been celebrated in our house but I think it should be. You deserve so much more than just one day a year where it’s all about you. My loving and caring mother who has provided me with such an amazing life, I know you wish that you could do more for me, but I want you to know that I already have everything. I have the amazing mom who does everything possible to make me happy even at the cost of her own happiness.
When people first meet me, there are some things that they learn within ten short minutes. They learn that I talk loudly. They learn that I am from California. They also learn that I love my mom. All of my friends know who “Lisa” is, even though most have never even met you. At work I have to watch what I say in order to maintain the façade that I have it all together. Without you, I’d be in shambles but they can’t know that. However, I think my co-workers have realized how much I rely on you. They’re probably convinced the only reason you don’t pack my lunch is because we’re 3,000 miles apart.
You have provided me with my world. Everything that I own, that I’ve done, and that I am up until now is all thanks to you. If I did not have you standing behind me, I am not sure where I would be at this point in my life.
Some people may wonder what it is like to grow up without a father. They may wonder if I have felt like there was always something missing. But having a mom like you is the best thing I could ever ask for. I have never wondered if I was missing out because you always made sure that I wasn’t missing anything.
I have a mother, father, and friend wrapped into one beautiful little 5’2” package.
As I finish writing this, I want to take the time to thank you. Thank you for being my everything, for always being there to support me in all my endeavors, for reminding me of who I am when I’m upset or I feel like giving up; but most importantly thank you for being you. I love you!
Sincerely,
Your appreciative daughter