I'm sure you've heard it before: the usual, “I do so much for you! The least you could do is be grateful!” And you probably sit there and roll your eyes.

You brat.

I'm just as guilty as any other, but lately, I've come to realize just how much we take for granted when it comes to our mothers, and fathers too.

Our parents did their best to raise us to be functional, happy people. They loved us. They listened to us. They gave advice.

When life got crazy outside of your home, they suffered the brunt of your bad attitudes, and helped pick up on your slack when you weren't there to help.

And you probably didn't even notice, because you were busy trying to live your own life and get away.

That's what I did.

Looking back, I wish I would have been more appreciative.

Now that I've been on my own off and on for a while, I notice little things. I miss having my parents drive me around, if only for the fact that gas and car maintenance get kinda pricey. Having mom do my laundry was nice, it saved me time and money. Not having to pay for groceries all the time, or do all the cooking, that was great. The constant reminders to do better, be better, aim higher. All those things that parents do to help you.

Maybe not even just parents. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, teachers, bosses, coworkers. People doing things for other people. That's the way the world needs to be. And y'all need to be more grateful.

Learn how to say thank you, if you haven't already.

Find ways to serve them in return.

Pick up your own slack. Don't make them work harder than they already have to.

Give them hugs, if they're into the touchy stuff. Tell them you love them.

Be a good example to your siblings, if you have any.

Do your part.

After all they've given you, show them that their sacrifices have been worth it.

I don't know what I'd do without my mom. She means the world to me, but sometimes I can be a total jerk to her for no reason. I know how much she gives up to help me succeed, and I can never repay that. She has always been my shoulder to cry on, the keeper of my secrets, the defender of my rights, the protector of my happiness. My mom is my hero, and yours should be one to you. In which case, treat her like it. Love her, respect her, help her. You will never regret it.