❤️ Dear Mom, I hope you read this! ❤️

Reading back my letter to Mom, I’m flooded with even more memories of her incredible impact. It’s hard to put into words just how much she means, but I want to share a bit more about the magic of having such a strong, loving Black mother. Mom wasn't just a caregiver; she was my first and best teacher. I remember when I faced my first big disappointment in school. I felt like giving up, but Mom sat me down, not to lecture, but to listen. She shared stories of her own struggles, demonstrating the resilience I now admire so much. She taught me that sometimes, the biggest setbacks are just setups for bigger comebacks. That conversation, her wisdom, it stuck with me and helped me navigate countless challenges later in life. It’s a lesson I now pass on to my own daughters. Her empathy was another superpower. There were days I’d come home from school with what felt like the weight of the world on my shoulders – silly teenage drama that felt monumental at the time. She never trivialized my feelings. Instead, she’d offer a warm hug and an open ear, letting me pour out all the 'dumbest things that might ruin my day,' just like I mentioned in my letter. Those moments of feeling truly heard, of having a safe space to be vulnerable, built an unbreakable trust between us. It showed me how to be that same comforting presence for my children, always ready to lend an ear and a shoulder. And oh, the dreams! That picture of us holding hands on the beach, with the sign 'Your Dreams' above us, always makes me smile. Mom was always in my corner, pushing me not just to dream big, but to work for those dreams. When I doubted myself, especially after becoming a mom and thinking my own aspirations might have to take a backseat, she was there. She reminded me that being a mother enriches you, it doesn’t diminish your personal goals. She’d say, 'Your dreams are important, honey. Chase them, acquire them. Your girls will see you doing it and learn to do the same.' Her belief in me gave me the courage to pursue things I thought were out of reach. Becoming a mother myself truly deepened my appreciation for everything she did. Seeing her hold my son for the first time, her eyes shining with pure joy, was a full-circle moment. It’s one thing to be loved, another to understand the depth of a mother's love when you become one. I now understand the sleepless nights, the constant worry, and the overwhelming, unconditional love that only a mom can truly know. Our bond isn't just about shared genes; it's about shared laughter, tears, and an unspoken understanding. We're separated by distance now, but that doesn't lessen the connection. We’re already planning our next little vacay, a chance to reconnect, laugh, and make new memories. I’m so excited for it! Every day, I try to embody the love, kindness, and strength she instilled in me, hoping to be even half the amazing mom she is. I truly am my favorite daughter because of her.