When I started my freshman year of college, I was overjoyed. I was so excited to start this crazy new journey of adulthood. But there was one slight thing that I did differently than others. I called my mom every day, sometimes more than once a day. When I would tell my peers how much I called my mom, they would question me and ask “Why? You just got away from her, she doesn’t need to know everything.”

They’re probably right, she doesn’t need to know everything, but I still tell her everything. Why? Because she’s my best friend and that’s what best friends do. Some of my roommates would go weeks without talking to their moms, and I have no idea how they do that. My mom and I have a special bond that I never want to break.

I think one of the reasons we are so close is because my mom’s mom died too soon, and they had a very close relationship. So, after that, I’ve always clung to her. Family has always been important to me because I’ve lost so many in the almost two decades that I’ve been alive.

I try to cherish as much time I have with my family as possible. If that means I call my mom while I’m microwaving ramen just so she can keep me company or I call her to tell her I’m dropping out of college because it’s annoying, so be it. Either way, I always know she will answer my call and she will be there. I can always count on her encouraging words or funny stories of my dad to brighten my day.

Family is the most important thing we have in this world besides our relationship with the Lord. I want to keep my family the most important thing because, at the end of the day, it’s all we have. Whether you have a close relationship with your mom or not, call her, tell her you’re fine. It will make her feel 10 times better; I promise.

Whether you’re 18, 28, 38, or 48, or however old, and you still have the privilege to still call your mom, do it. My mom no longer has that opportunity to call hers, and I know she’d love to. Don’t take your mom for granted. She’s your mother for a reason, she loves you, so call her. I call my mom every day because I know she loves me, she won’t judge me, and she’s my best friend. I can’t imagine life without her. I love you, mom.