Every year, there is one day dedicated to mothers across the world. To me, one day is not nearly enough to appreciate everything my mom has done for me. My mom is not just a maternal figure to me–she is a mentor, a friend, and a listener.

The strongest person I know, my mom moved to America from China by herself in her teen years. She powered through many obstacles, never looking back. All along, my mom has retained the beautiful traits that make her her. The warmth that my mom radiates, the many life lessons that she’s taught me, the times she’s said “I love you” to me–these are all gifts like no other. My mom inspires me daily and motivates me to be the best version of myself.

With my dad out of town for business almost half of the time, my mom is the main caregiver in my family. She wakes up before sunrise just so that she can make me and my sister the most delicious breakfasts and school lunches. When school is over and even when she’s exhausted to the core, she drives us to our extracurriculars and takes us out for dinner wherever we want. My sister and I are her number one priority. Without me ever asking, my mom does little things that make life simpler for me.

Like any other mother and daughter, my mom and I have had our fair share of arguments. Now that I think about it, I can’t even remember what started most of our arguments. I’ve disappointed her on many occasions, but my mom has always forgiven me.

I’ve always admired the best-friend relationship that Lorelai and Rory had in Gilmore Girls, and I would wonder if my mom and I could achieve that level of closeness. When one of my best friends revealed to me that she kept her boyfriend a secret from everyone except her mom, the first feeling I had was not resentment toward the fact that she didn’t share such an important thing with me, it was awe for the fact that she could feel so comfortable to talk about such an off-limits subject with her mom.

My mom and I may not have that type of relationship, but nevertheless, she is the one person who understands me better than I do myself. She offers her unconditional love and support when I need it most, and she celebrates my successes as though they are her own. Our happy memories outweigh any horrendous argument that we’ve had. Because of her, I know the feeling of inner peace as I look out onto the sunset from our dinner cruise in Lake Tahoe. Because of her, I know the beautiful aroma of waffle cones that lure on the boardwalk of Laguna Beach. One of the greatest gifts my mom has given me is a multitude of wonderful experiences.

As a senior, leaving home in August to a completely foreign state, I have grown more aware of the impact my mom has had on my life. Her presence itself is comforting to me in my most stressful times. Through ups and downs, my mom remains my greatest supporter and role model. She has shaped my personality with her traits of courage, persistence, and compassion. She is a monumental driving force in my life, and I could not appreciate her enough.

So, from me to my mom,

I love you and thank you.

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