Mother’s Day can be a bittersweet time for some and a joyous occasion for others. Many people have lost a mother and this time of the year may be difficult. No matter your circumstance, it’s a gift to celebrate Mother’s Day. To celebrate the person who gave you life and the life, or lives, that you have brought into the world.

For several years, my mother raised 3 kids on her own. I admire my mom for everything she did and went through as a single mother. She sacrificed so much time and resources for her kids. When you are a child, you have no clue about the sacrifices your mother makes for your family. I didn’t realize how much she did for all 3 of us until I grew older. Something else we may not realize is that mothers are people too. They have dreams and aspirations of their own. They often give up something they want for their own family. For that, I am eternally grateful.

I know that people say that mothers are just doing their job. But being a mother is more than a job. It’s a calling. Do not take the role of a mother for granted. We all are free to make choices and mothers make choices every day to love, support, care, and provide for their families.

With that being said, happy Mother’s Day to the many women holding it down in your homes and in the world. You are AMAZING and I admire you.

To Marie Dean, my mom, no amount of words can describe how grateful I am to call you mom. There is no amount of money I could give to you to repay for all the sacrifices you made for me. You are my role model. I love everything about you and all you have done for me and my brother and sister. I pray that I am half the mother you are when I am blessed to have children of my own.

To all my friends and family members who are mothers, I simply want to say ….. I am of you proud of you! Not only do you give to your family, you give to this world. Keep shining. You are a bright light and exactly what the world needs!!

Happy Mother’s Day.