I originally published this blog post in 2016, but everything I wrote is as true today as it was two years ago, so I thought that I would share it again.

I know I don’t say this often enough, or maybe even ever, but from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for always, always, always being there for me the way no person ever has been or ever will be. You have been right by my side through the very worst of times, and the very best.

Thank you for listening to me talk a situation to death for hours on end with no judgement or criticism, but with compassion and empathy, like only a mother can. You have never stopped believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. I will forever associate the saying, “You go girl!” with you.

Thank you for always being honest with me. I may not want to hear it, but you know it’s what I need to hear. I might even act like a total brat at times, raise my voice and take my frustrations out on you, and for that I am sorry, but perhaps it’s easier for me to do that because I know that no matter what, you love me unconditionally.

You are the most selfless, caring, hardworking, kind and (one of the) funniest people I know. I know how much you and dad have sacrificed in order to give Rio and I the best life possible.

Mom, you are my best friend. Thank you for your continuous support throughout whatever life throws at me (a lot of hard balls in recent years), and for never hindering my growth and for giving me wings to fly. I can only hope that one day I will be the kind of mother you are.

Thank you for everything you do. Happy Mother’s Day. I love you.