Mom’s are our first best friend and our first teacher, and even though they teach us practically everything we know, there are a few lessons my mother taught me that I will never forget.

1. Love yourself, respect yourself, and believe in yourself

This was one of the first lessons I remember my mother teaching me, well besides the basics (i.e. walking, talking) of course. My mother is the most determined and hard-working person I know, and she'll never fail to tell you how hard it was to get where she is. My favorite quote of hers is "if you don't love, respect, or believe in yourself, nobody will", and as I've gotten older I've realized the truth behind this. I have learned to truly love, respect, and believe in myself, and have found true happiness here...which leads me to my second lesson.

2. Make yourself happy

Happiness is situational. You can be happy one minute and then crying the next, which is usually how my mom and I are during any chick-flick ever. Although it is situational, you can find things that do constantly make you happy. Whether that's walks on the beach, a GNO, coffee in the morning, reading a good book, or just sleeping in, find what makes you happy and stick with it.

3. Chase your dreams and never give up

"Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." -Norman Vincent

This is an incredible quote, and one I know my mother would agree with very much. Your dreams are something that should never be compromised on, never given up, and never ignored. You need to find your passion, find your dream, and run with it, Don't let anyone stop you.

4. Never let a boy ruin a friendship

This is a huge mistake that so many of us make, even I am guilty of it. My mother told me for as long as I can remember that "boyfriends will come and go, but your girlfriends are forever". This is one of those lessons that gets overlooked all too often, but when you finally understand it, it changes your perspective on so many things.

5. Your family is the most important thing in your life

Being from an Italian family, this is one thing that was instilled in me at a very young age. A lesson that I have learned the hard way is that so many 'friends' will leave as soon as things get rocky, but your family will always love and support you. Nothing compares to your families unconditional love and support.

6. Always be honest (especially with yourself)

First, my mother taught me to always be honest with her. Second, my mother taught me to always be honest with other people. Last, but most certainly not least, my mother taught me to be honest with myself. All three of these lessons have come to be very important in my life. "Mothers always know" is not just some saying, so don't lie to them, they'll find out. Trust me.

7. Don’t be impulsive

Being impulsive is one of the worst things you can be. There is so much depth to this lesson but all I'll say is that my mother taught me that you'll get yourself into trouble and lose things you really want when you're impulsive, and these have shown to be true.

8. Always be kind and do what you believe is the right thing

A kind word or gesture will go a long way, and is remembered. This is one of the lessons I have taken to heart, I truly believe that kindness can make a true difference in the world, and I attribute this way of thinking to my mother's kind heart. If you are unkind or do something that is against your beliefs, it will only hurt you. You are the one who has to live knowing that you were unkind or betrayed your beliefs. Always do what you are ready to do and believe is right in all areas of your life.

9. Always be strong and independent

Finally, what I believe to be the most important lesson, be strong and independent. My mother has gone through a lot in her life, and I always look to her as a role model. She is the strongest person I have ever met and I aspire to be at least half the woman she is. The fact that she can do everything for herself is so inspiring. She's never one to expect a man to do something, even though she knows my father is always willing to help. She just goes and does what she wants to do, and is more than happy that way.

All in all, if I grow up to be anything like my mother, I know I've done well. Mothers are the most important people in our lives because, frankly, we wouldn't be here without them (literally and figuratively). I love you mom, you will always be my best friend.