In my life I’ve been blessed and fortunate enough to be surrounded by women that have been exemplary mother figures to me. Of course, my own mother is my numero uno in pretty much all things but I’ve got a sprawling network of mothers I like to call “mom away from home.” I’m sure many of you do too, at least I sure hope that you do. These women have taken me under their care and loved and nurtured me as if I were their own natural child. They’ve instilled in me a strong value system, coached me, cheered for me, cried with me, prayed with me, and have always given me the best of themselves. On this Mother’s Day, I’d like to recognize these powerful women I look up to. These women have shaped me into the person I am today and I am so full of gratitude for it. I hope you’ll join me in thanking the important women in your own life. To all the moms, nanas, mentors, grannies, auntie-moms, and in between: I yell a resounding “THANK YOU!”

Thank you for guiding me through life and sharing yours with me. The good times, the rough times, the triumphant times, and the times you felt defeated.

Thank you for encouraging me when I felt like giving up and standing with me when I refused to quit.

Thank you for praying for me and advocating for my health, education, and wellbeing.

Thank you for sacrificing for me. For the sleepless nights, long shifts, taxi cabbing, and the last bites of your favorite food.

Thank you for showing up and showing out. For being the loudest in the audience, the most enthusiastic chaperone, and most committed bedtime story reader.

Thank you for telling me and showing me that hard work pays off. That you can come back from a setback and you can turn a trial into a triumph.

Thank you for being an honest woman of her word.

Thank you for being my biggest supporter and my fiercest protector.

Thank you for raising me.

I love you.