This isn’t my usual type of post, and it’s not on my usual day, but I couldn’t let Mother’s Day pass without taking the opportunity to honor my mother, Carmella Smith.

Carmella Smith

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any times I came to you, upset or angry, and you always knew just what to say to buoy my spirits and shed light on the problem. You were there with sage advice and wisdom beyond your years, helping guide me.

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ther times I came to you to share funny stories about things that happened during the course of my day. You were always there to listen, and to laugh with me, even if it didn’t amuse you, just to humor me.

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hen there were the times that I wasn’t sure of myself and my abilities. You were there, cheering me on, letting me know I was more than good enough, more than ready to face any challenge that comes my way.

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appy childhood memories are of me and you together. You taught me to read while I sat on your lap. You taught me to spell while I followed you around with a tiny pink dust cloth. I’m a writer today because of you.

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ven though we joke about the rules we grew up with, it’s because of your ethics that I have the strength and character I have today. You taught me your faith, your fortitude, and your convictions, and I thank you.

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ight about the time your work should have been done, I had my own children. You were there with me, calming my fears, wiping my tears, sharing my joys, and offering me council. For that, I’m truly grateful.

Mother, I don’t tell you often enough or show you clearly enough how much I appreciate all the things you’ve done for me. There really are no words to express gratitude for life, for nurturing, for care, concern, and compassion for over forty years. So, on this Mother’s Day, just like I do every day, I’ll just say I love you.

Happy Mother’s Day to my mom, and to all mothers today. Moms come in all shapes and sizes, and with all kinds of titles (mom, aunt, godmother, stepmother, grandmother, sister, friend), but any nurturing female presence in our lives deserves this recognition.