Hi mom… Before we get started, I’m not asking for a new pair of shoes. I just wanted to tell you all the reasons why you’re really cool. You’ve been by my side since 5:55 PM almost fourteen years ago and it’s made all the difference. Just like Mary did for Jesus, you support me in everything I want to do, giving me the resources I need to make it happen. You’ve taught me to be a hard worker, how to solve problems creatively, and shown me the importance of learning more. Even when you’re sitting in some convention center during my volleyball tournaments, bored and waiting to go home, you still cheer for me and comfort me if we lose. You’ve celebrated my victories and encouraged me to continue even when I think it’s too hard. My whole life you’ve been showing me how to set myself up for success and become a better person.
Mary was a staple in Jesus’s life. She was his mother who was by his side as he spread God’s word. He had a big task to complete on Earth, and she stood by his side the entire time. Even when people thought he was crazy, she believed in him. You’ve encouraged my crazy ideas, well, most of them, and never told me there was something I couldn’t do. You’ve always believed in me and never doubted my skills. You’ve offered to support me and give me the tools to get wherever I want to go. Just like Mary, you’re strong. You work a full-time job, take me to sports practices, and help me with schoolwork. You make time for me and I know that you’re always there to help me. You’ve been around through the ups, the downs, and the crazy, never letting me down.
I’ve learned so much from you over the years, from little things like folding socks to big things like writing important papers. I wrote this one to thank you. As much as I don’t want to admit it, you’re usually right when you tell me what to do. You taught me how to be more independent and to be a nice person. You taught me the importance of respecting others, being kind, and using my skills to make the world a better place. Even when I listen to you on the phone with your coworkers, I can’t help but think about how smart you are.
Mary helped Jesus, just like you help me. I wouldn’t know how to make scrambled eggs or fold my socks if I didn’t have you. Not only have you taught me how to do chores, but you’ve also taught me how to take care of myself. I look up to you a lot. I know I make jokes about you waking up at the crack of dawn to exercise, but you’re doing something right. You’ve shown me how to be considerate, how to study, and how to hold your head high when it’s tough. From morals and behavior to school, to learning how to be independent, you’ve taught me so much. You’ve been by my side since day 1 and I can’t think of a better shopping buddy and mom to have around.