Mother

You loved me.
Unconditionally. Truly. Deeply. Always.
Even before you knew me, you loved the thought of me.
When I was unlovable, you loved me still.
You are my mother.

You sacrificed for me.
Your body. Your finances. Your independence. Your sleep.
And with a smile on your face and a happy heart,
you went without, to make sure that I never did.
You are my mother.

You taught me.
Manners. Courage. Strength. Beauty. Perseverance.
You taught me by your example, and by your words.
I learned to be what I saw in you.
I learned without knowing I learned.
You are my mother.

You let me go.
Physically. Emotionally. Spiritually. Graciously.
When everything in you wanted to hold on tighter.
You trusted me enough to say goodbye, and know I would return.
You are my mother.

And now...

I love them.
I sacrifice for them.
I teach them, and one day...
I will let them go.

I am their mother.