Letter to My Mother

Mom,

I know I don't call you nearly enough, but it's not because I never think about you. You've taught me so much, and every day I find myself becoming more like you. I might not live at home anymore, but I hear your voice in my head all the time, saying all of the things that you always say.

In my head, you tell me I can show love by doing the dishes, doing the things that need to be done, that no one else wants to do. You show me that just by working so hard for all of us at home. I value this so much in people now - the willingness to keep order in the household.

In my head you tell me to exercise and to eat well and to sleep, and that it's never too early to think about taking care of my body. You taught me to value my body's needs.

In my head, you tell me to turn to God when I need help, and to remember to pray. You tell me that people and churches might not be perfect but that God is always enough.

From you, I've learned how to cook, how to clean, and how to listen.
From you, I've learned that clothes should enhance beauty, and that appearances can be important. I've learned to do makeup, however reluctantly.
From watching you and Dad when I was little, I acquired my desire to dance.
I've learned that you're usually right.

So thank you, Mom.

Thank you for taking care of me.
Thank you for teaching me so much.
Thank you for showing me what it means to have a family.

And Happy Birthday.

Love,

Your oldest.