Day 3: Write a Letter to Your Parents

"Ain't no way I can pay ya back, but my plan is to show you that I understand. You are appreciated." -Tupac

Dear Ma,

There are a million things I can write about you, but to you - not many. We talk almost every day, and when we aren't on the phone we're texting. I love that we've kept an open connection despite my move away to college. Even when I moved further away, we kept our lines open because we knew that if we didn't, it would be our demise.

From day one it's been just us two; Daddy was never there and even Anthony is like a roommate. I loved the fact that you never had anymore children, and grateful when I notice that you never spoke one bad word about my father. We've grown up -and out- together. I couldn't have asked for a better mother. Everything I've been through, you were right there by my side.

At times I've worried about you, about your anxiety and inability to deal with stress effectively. You hold it all in. You aren't emotional in the way that I am. You wear your strength differently, and it's befitting of you. Beautiful. I never thought anyone was prettier than you, btw. Because I know that you are capable of handling whatever life throws your way, I know you'll attain true happiness. You are wisdom and strength, from head to toe. (Get the help you need. Don't feel like you owe anyone anything.)

My biggest concern is not paying you the respect that you deserve. I was oftentimes a disrespectful and talkative child, saying what came to mind first and considering your reaction second. Now that I am able to provide more for myself, I want to give you the world. I know that no matter what I do, you are proud and supportive of me. I want to show you that no matter what you decide to pursue, I'm behind you all the way, 100%.

Thank you for being my comfort person. Thank you for giving me attention and unconditional love, whether or not you felt you got enough from your mother. Thank you for loving Isaiah and Tosin as if they are your own. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for loving yourself.

With all my heart and then some,

Tweety Bird