I wish for the world that I could see myself through her eyes. They see something greater than the reflection in my mirror. Her eyes see my innermost parts, my best and worst moments, and yet she sees me as perfectly imperfect.

She believes in me more than I believe in myself. She beckons me to bigger and better things, always encouraging me to dream, to try (even if it means failure), and to be humble in success. She knows every secret and helps me with the pickles I find myself in. She is wise beyond her years. In fact, I'd wager she's seen it all for little has surprised her. She knows just what to say and when to say it. Her timing is impeccable, like the home she keeps.

Her hands are no stranger to hard work. They have cooked and cleaned and loved and cared for most of her life. Scarlet O'Hara once said a lady is known by her hands, but I must add that she is also known by her's. They were made to mend and heal, to hug and hold, and to give strength when others lack. She is a vessel of God's love, completely selfless and constantly pouring into those around her.

Grace is left in her wake, and her words are sweetened with honey, for she knows more are won that way. Her love is not bound by biology. She is definitely a mother to more than her own. She is the best friend you always wanted and the only role model you need. She is your momma, and she is the best.

Now to flip the script or turn the page or whatever analogy you'd like to use, I'd like to say a few things to the moms and aunts and grandmothers and all other momma figures out there. I wish you could see yourself through our eyes. Perfect love casts out all fear. And while our love may not be absolute perfection, it certainly does not have room for insecurity.

To us, you are the realization of beauty and who we aspire to be. There is no greater compliment that we could receive than to be called your likeness. For your life may not have been easy, yet you strive to make ours easier. You may be empty, but still, you fill us up. You might have lived in a house and not a home, but wherever you are, we are home. You are the ultimate giver. You give with your life, and from your example, we plan to give with ours. So thank you for always teaching more, encouraging more, and caring more. You have loved us with abandon, exemplifying that love is to be poured out and never stored up.

So happy Mother's Day, ladies. Today we call you blessed, and we'll just call you momma for the rest.