Dear Mom,
I know I’ve probably told you thousands of times, but thanks. Since becoming a mother myself I realize how much this short little word means, and I know it can never be said enough. You see, as a child I knew that I had a great mom, but I had no idea what being a great mom involved. I’ll admit that at times, I took for granted perfectly made beds, warm, delicious suppers, new shoes, and the constant driving around you did to get me to whatever sport or activity I was into at that moment. If you were exhausted, I never knew it. You always seemed to have boundless energy to care for your children and our home. Now, in the midst of motherhood myself, I am well aware of how drained you truly felt some days. Growing up, I never knew that while I napped, you cleaned my messes, washed my clothes and fretted over whether or not you were doing a good job. And at night, when everyone else lay soundly sleeping, you prepared perfect snacks for my class and put a few finishing touches on my school project just because you wanted to see me succeed. I realize now how precious those lost minutes of sleep were, but how time spent with and doing for your children is worth oh so much more.
Mom, thank you for keeping me healthy and safe even if it meant endless hours of worry over a high fever or inconsolable crying. Now, with children of my own, I understand how much heartbreak you suffered watching me endure pain or illness. I am now fully aware of how much a mother worries about her children. From the sleepless nights of infancy to the anxiety I may have caused during my teenage years, you were always my protector even when I was unnerving. Thanks mom for always giving me guidance to make the best decisions. Even now, as a mom myself, I am grateful that I have you to give me advice on how to be the very best mother possible. And, on days when I feel I’m not doing a great job, you are still there to reassure me that so often, you felt just the same.
Thank you for giving completely of yourself to me. I have learned that you never put yourself first (and still don’t) to cater to my needs, wants and desires at every moment just to see the joy in my face. I know that the memories we’ve made together far surpass those created with anyone else. And, since becoming a mom myself, I too feel the anticipation each morning awaiting my children to wake to begin a new day of wonder and adventure. Thank you for the wonderful memories of my childhood that I now enjoy reliving with my own children.
Mom, thanks for being my friend, for calming my darkest fears and mending my heart when it was broken. I’m not sure there is a way to truly thank you for all you’ve done for me. Of everything I have to thank you for, there is one thing you’ve taught me that I am most grateful for…how to be a mom. You have been an amazing example of love and patience, skills so important in motherhood. And, while you worked so hard, seemingly preparing me for the “real world” you were really training me for the most rewarding and challenging job I’d ever have…being a mom myself. Thanks, mom!
