I originally posted this for Mother’s Day 2011, but it warrants reposting. It’s just as true today. See the original.
A dear, wonderful mother who’s taught me that there’s only one person responsible for your destiny, and that it’s best to do the right thing, even when no one’s looking.
A cadre of aunts – by blood, by marriage, by decades of family friendship. A godmother; a cheerleader; a pillar of strength; a shopping buddy to name a few, sometimes all in one woman. All women who’ve known me my whole life and have loved me through the awkward, the stubborn, the insecure and the triumphant.
A grandmother who instilled in me a love for movies and a love for family; who told me I was beautiful; who is still with me, every single day.
A grandmother who never ran out of Saturday night movies, Sprite and popcorn; who taught me to pray; whose strength I am in awe of every single day.
A best friend since the day I turned sixteen who knows me better than I know myself; who travels miles (and sometimes across oceans) to see me; who reminds me of what I’m worth, what I deserve.
A first boss, a businesswoman with class and style who remains a role model over a decade later, her success and passion a constant inspiration.
A sister-in-law who’s made my big brother happier than I’ve ever seen him; who’s more clever, more confident than she realizes; who’s always a good sport, even when she doesn’t get the joke.
A baby sister who’s not really a baby anymore but will always be my girl, my spitfire, my Mamie, however old she gets.
And of course, the countless friends always up for a drink or a chat; the coworkers who’d listen to the stress, who’d celebrate the success; the sorority sisters who defined college and beyond; the roommates, the teachers, the childhood playmates; the screen sirens, the main characters, and the writers who shape their stories.
These are the women in my life, and today as justa small token of my appreciation, I wish each of them a Happy Mother’s Day.
You’re awesome.