Some thoughts for my mother, written in rhyme: I figured today might have been a good time

To tell you that every second and dime you have spent on me isn't in vain.

It's been 20 years since you first saw my face, and from that moment on, not a thing could replace

This inseparable bond, as our heartstrings would lace to unite us in triumphs and pain.

Through misfortune, you would find the will to be strong, despite shadows of death that had done you much wrong;

Step by step, day by day, you continue along with my brother and I at your side.

Your unwavering love and relentless desire to please others has power to wholly inspire

Me to be like you; all my life, I'll aspire to be someone you look on with pride.

If there were some way I could give you my sight for a day and you saw yourself, maybe you might

Understand your true beauty, and know how much light your kind smile can cast in the dark.

You would look yourself over and say, "I am great," and you'd banish away every trace of self-hate

Because, mother, you are more than your clothes and your weight (though I know you'll detest this remark).

For every laugh and tear we will share, for every burden that we will bear,

We shall prove ourselves the greatest pair that ever came to be.

When time has run out and I am all grown, I'll look back on us, always having known

That no matter what happened, I wasn't alone- you were always a part of me.

These thoughts for you, mother, are written with love. Your life is one I'm proud to be part of.

At the end of the day, when push comes to shove, you are always my dearest friend.

Thank you for believing in all that I do; my life is a gift, and I owe it to you.

From daughter to mother, these words remain true: I will love you beginning to end.

-Bridget