A Beautiful black woman from a big city that gave birth to two baby girls in a small town. When I was a little girl, my mama used to dress me and my sister like twins. She always wanted us to look pretty. When me and my sister walked around the neighborhood, many people always complimented us. Not only our appearance, but also our mannerisms. My Mama instilled many values in us that I still hold true to this day. She taught us to be respectful always. She taught us to stand up for ourselves. She taught us to speak our mind and speak up for ourselves. She taught us to focus on our learning. My Mama is an avid reader. She taught me the beauty in reading, which later transformed into how I found my gift in writing. I thank her for this.
As I got older, I blossomed into my own personality and style. Yet still many would see me and remind me that I was still her twin. In many ways I was and still am. I used to run from this label, but as I look at the woman I became I embrace it more and more each day. My Mama always made me feel safe and secure. When I was young I used to be teased for being thin. I was teased for being darker. I was teased for my hair. Yet when I went to my mama crying, she would remind me of who I am. She would recount her own experiences and reassure me that I am beautiful just as I am. She would remind me that I didn’t have to worry about what anyone said. She taught me to love myself despite what anyone said. Through my mama’s lessons, I found my own strength. I thank her for this.
When I was a teenager at many moments our personalities clashed. I was not only her twin, but in many ways I was her mirror. I can only imagine how difficult that could be for a mama. To see her own reflection sometimes. I see my own reflection in her just the same. As many mother and daughter relationships, we had our issues. Yet, we would find our own space, grow, learn, and found ways to amend our issues. She taught me how to deal with conflict with courage. I thank her for this.
She allowed me to spread my wings at a young age. When I told her l was leaving for the military, she was at first reluctant. I know my mama didn’t want “her baby” to go too far away from her. I know my safety and security is important to her. She was always my protector, and around her I never felt I had to worry about another being harming me. Yet, she trusted me enough to not discourage me away from my decision. She instead supported me and that in itself taught me that no matter where I am, I am supported. She taught me to be an independent thinker and to act independently for my own benefit. I never felt I had to depend on another to achieve my own goals. Because of this I realize success was always at my grasp. I thank her for this.
Now at 30 years old, I think back on my journey alongside my mama. We have had many trials and errors, yet what I hold true to is the things she taught me, the hard lessons, and the moments she showed me tender care. She is an all in one package. Her multifaceted nature has taught me how to be adaptable, and for that I thank her.
My Mother is the most beautiful woman in the world. My mother is the Sunshine of my life. I am so glad to wake up and look at her in the mirror when I see myself. She is the smartest, toughest, and most loyal person I know. I am so thankful for all of our experiences and even the hardest of lessons, because I am who I am because of her. For you mama. You are the greatest love of ALL.