Dear Mom,

There is so much I have to apologize for that I’ve done and put you through, not only while you were raising me, but after you were done as well. To me, you are the greatest parent on the planet and even more impressively, you did it on your own. This letter is to let you know how much I appreciate all of the sacrifices you’ve made in order to give me the best life possible and how I’m sorry that I didn’t make that the smoothest road for you.

For most of my life it’s been just the two of us, which allowed us to become way closer than the average mother and daughter. We were a team that faced the world and its challenges together. Our relationship is very special because of this, but as I am repeatedly reminded, you are foremost my mom and I am the daughter. We are very similar not only in our looks but in our personalities as well, the most evident traits being our passion and stubbornness which come out most when we get into arguments.

We have a running joke that we don’t talk about when I was seventeen because I was a rebellious nightmare. I’m sure other parents would have kicked me out or disowned me but even though you probably wanted to, you stuck with me and loved me through my phase from hell. I want to apologize for all that I put you through that year; you really didn’t deserve any of it.

I’m sorry for all of the times I was ungrateful. You have defied all odds by immigrating here, working hard, and getting a Master’s. Not only that, but you did it with a child while going through a divorce. Most people wouldn’t even be able to handle one of those obstacles, but you overcame them all. Ever since I was little I said that you were my hero and you always will be. I can’t even begin to count how many times you had to give up an opportunity you wanted because you had to put raising me first, but I want you to know that I am so appreciative for every single sacrifice you've made.

Finally, I want to say I’m sorry for our most recent fight. We have been in such a good place and several factors contributed to our argument. I’m not taking full responsibility because we both are at fault, but I’m sorry for any way that I hurt you and that I’ve been stubborn about it and haven’t reached out. I know that after you’ve dedicated the majority of your life to raising me, having me act like a brat when I’m supposed to be mature is a cruel shock. But I’m human, I’m still growing, and I still have so much to learn even though sometimes I think that I know it all. I'm really sorry.

As I go further into adulthood, our relationship will change to reflect that. I know that you will always be my parent but we are also able to form another relationship as women. You are such a wonderful person and I look forward to that maturing friendship. Keeping that in mind, please accept my apology for all of the times my actions did not reflect me as a mature woman. Knowing the person that raised me, I know that I am equipped to handle life and what it has to offer in the best way possible and for that I am forever grateful to you.

Love,

B