Mom,
I've never been much of a writer. In fact, as a student, you were always there to take my choppy sentences and make them into fluid paragraphs. We constructed some wonderful essays together. Some of them --remember that report on AIDS??-- even stood the test of time and were recycled year after year. This Mother's Day, I want to thank you for the many ways you've helped me become the *cough* lady I am now.
You taught me that knowledge is strength, laughter cures heartache, love endures all, and every other cliche out there. You also taught me to vent about things in the privacy of my own car, that clear nail polish can fix a lot more than a chipped nail, and how to properly make scrambled eggs (touch of milk and mixed with a fork).
Perhaps, the most valuable lessons you taught me have come in those moments you might not have known I was watching. I learned courage reading the highlighted parts of the scriptures you kept next to the bed (D&C 6:36 Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not). I learned empathy when I saw the heartbreak in your eyes reflected from my own brokenness. I learned leadership from the umpire tower at a softball field in Eastern Washington. I learned what pride truly feels like as I watched you teaching a room full of parents about loving their children, especially when it's difficult.
Thank you for your patience, guidance, and unwavering, unconditional love.
Love You Forever,
Your Daughter
