You are my confidant, rock, and one of my biggest supporters. I have learned so much in my time here on Earth, and I can say that a lot of it had to do with you.

I remember being little, and you always told me to walk with my shoulders back and chest out so I didn't look slouched. You said people who walk with confidence demand respect, and they receive it.

I have witnessed you grow just like you were there to watch me. I have seen you become your own person, and reach this state of being that I hope to one day reach myself.

Mama, I adore you. You have pushed me and I have fought back relentlessly, but you have never given up. I aspire to make you proud and to live every day just as you would. The way you walk into a room and everybody is taken aback, and the way you glow when you speak to people, it is truly amazing.

I remember when I started to learn what feminism was, and the first woman I thought about who embodied feminism was you. You have shown me what it means to be independent and strong willed, and I am so thankful for that.

Your love for the human race is beautiful, and the fight you put up for women's rights is why I began my journey as a feminist.

I fought through the panic attacks, and the eating disorder, the break ups, and the pain because of your love and strength. Your voice can sooth a roaring ocean. Your presence, mom, your overwhelming loving presence…it makes all of my worry and hurt go away.

I know we missed out on some of those conventional mother-daughter things, but that is okay. Do not feel guilty about any of that. Mom you came to me at the right time, at the exact right time. I was so hurt and I felt so much pain, but you were there to catch me and hold me up.

You have expanded my mind to the ends of the earth, mom. I feel love and peace more than I ever have, and it is because of you. You did the job every mother should. It was done differently than most but you were part of what made me who I am today.

I don’t trust most people like I trust you. Your instinct and knowledge of me is indescribable.

I learned to love because of you. I learned to love MYSELF because of you.

I have learned to nurture because of you.

So, thank you mama. Thank you for every single thing, big and small, that you have done for me.

I love you very much.