This Mother’s Day, I wanted to take the time and reflect on the most important woman in my life, the woman who I received my name and life’s blood from: my mom. Hers was a life that will be remembered with a deep feeling of love that lingers long after her goodbye. Her love was my first language. She didn’t just raise me, she rooted me in kindness and warmth. For that, she deserves the highest honor and recognition. She not only shaped me as a person, but she shaped my life in its entirety.

My mother was and still remains the strongest person that I’ve ever met. She had this confidence in the way she carried herself that was so inspiring and helped me get through middle school and high school. She never seemed to really care about what people thought of her, which is almost unheard of in this day and age. She subconsciously taught me how to be confident in my own skin just by being herself.

She had a strong belief in “fighting fire with fire”. She believed that if someone would ever pick on me or mess with me, I should just do it right back. Now, when I face conflict or road bumps, I think of her and remember what she would do. She was never scared to stand up for herself, so why should I be? I find myself searching for what she would do in most situations I’m in. She always knew the right thing to do.

Just because she has passed, doesn’t mean I’ve had to learn how to live without her. I’ve learned how to live with her love in a different way. Although I will never feel her touch again, I still feel her love in every aspect of my life. The countless memories, lessons, laughs and nights where we went on late night gas station candy runs. I enjoyed every little moment I spent with her even if we were doing absolutely nothing. I believe that to be the greatest thing someone can provide, and that is why I am forever grateful for the wonderful woman who made me.

Happy Mother’s Day to my Momma in heaven and to all the strong, selfless women who’ve planted a seed of love, provided strength and have done all the beautiful work of being a mother. Whether that’s moms, grandmas, aunts, or chosen family, you are all seen, loved and most importantly honored.