This year has brought more appreciation on my family than any other. While college comes with new friends, crazy amounts of homework, and new clubs to join, it also brings out a whole new level of independence and responsibility. I found myself having to take care of both myself and my friends, and thanking my mom everyday for allowing me to blossom into the young woman I am today. So, Mom, this one’s for you.

Dear Mom,

Thank you. I don’t think I say that to you enough, as much as you deserve it. Thank you for always being there to support me, take care of me, make me laugh; for listening to me ramble on about school, and for helping me study by letting me FaceTime with you while you fall asleep and I tell you all about what I have written in an exam study guide. Thank you for always being my shoulder to cry on or the one to embrace me in a hug because you’re proud. Thank you for always bringing out the best in me. Your encouragement and support keeps me together even when we’re apart.

I am beyond grateful to have a mother that I can also call my best friend. I am so proud to have seen you grow and become such an empowering woman. I may have only noticed it for a few years compared to your twenty, but I still notice. You bring light to every room you stand in. I hope to someday be as incredible as you. It’s taken me far too long to learn to reflect and to be thankful to those who molded me into who I am today, and for that I am sorry, but here’s to many more years of mother-daughter bonding.

There is no greater bond than that of mother and daughter. You are my best friend. I love you to the moon and back, Mom. You taught me well. I certainly would not be where I am without you. You are an inspiration. You are my hero. I still have so much to learn from you, but I think I’m off to a good start. As you always say, the soul of the child chooses the parents. And I can say with absolute certainty, that I chose the right ones.

All My Love,

Your daughter