My mother is by far one of the most important people in my life. I know sometimes it feels like we don’t appreciate each other, but I truly thank you for being such an inspiration in my life.

Between staying up late to cook for our family, to making sure I’m on top of my studies, I really appreciate all the effort you put into raising me. I remember in the fifth grade, when I was trying to get into the accelerated math program, you would help me through every section to make sure I knew what I was doing on that test. I remember that when I was still in Chinese school: I spent hours every day on homework until you showed me how to do it faster. Even now, you still help me on all my Chinese assignments, so I hope you know, I really do appreciate it. Even if it was accompanied by arguing, I love the time we spend together.

One of my fondest memories is how you would play music or listen to the radio on the Bluetooth speaker in the kitchen while making breakfast when I was younger. You’d comment on the morning news and share your thoughts, which inspired me to learn more about current events and ultimately led me to join The Arcadia Quill. During the pandemic, you would make sure we stayed in touch with our family, calling my grandparents daily to check in on them. Even the smallest actions, like buying gifts for my teachers, taught me to be kinder to others.

I hope you know that you’ve taught me what it means to work hard and put others before myself, and your unwavering support has shaped the person I am today. I know I get on your nerves sometimes, whether it’s because of my grades or how I act at home, but I hope I’ve done enough to make you proud, and I want you to know how much I appreciate everything you do. I hope I always make you feel appreciated and loved, because you deserve it. I love you, Mom, and I look forward to all the memories we have yet to make. I’m excited to see the amazing ways we’ll continue to grow together and to celebrate all that you’ve done.