When I decided to finish my college degree a couple of years back, I wanted to do it not just for me but for her, for the woman who chose family first and gave me the ability and strength to have a family, career, and education. I wanted to be the first to walk the Coliseum floor and get my degree. And when I did, my mother was there to watch. I have always known that she is proud of me, she says it, she shows it, and it lifts me more than I know how to express. I stand strong knowing that I am never alone in life. I am empowered in everything I do because I do it with generations of strong women sup- porting me. If my choices are right or wrong, I know that my mother is always with me. We tackle every high, every low, and every family situa- tion as a team. Phrases like “I got you” and “On my way-coming in hot” are how we say so much in so few words. She has strength in so many ways that I do not. She listens without judging; she allows me to find my answers and supports what I decide. She shares her concerns with love and has perfected the dichotomy of laid-back listening with the subtle undercurrent of “hurt my babies and you’ll be sorry.” I am so proud of the woman she is and who she has grown up to be. She is now not only my mother but my children’s Memaw. It’s a new layer of feeling to see how much they want to be near her, as much as I always have. I have been so fortunate to know my mother not just as my parent but as a woman herself. I continue to learn from her, to grow with her, and be so proud that she is my mother. I am who I am because I “get it from my mama.”
Eduardo Enrique Sosa Zapata TP in Colombia
Since she carried me in her womb, she was an example of strength and a warrior woman. My mother’s partner at that time abandoned her, leaving her alone on her journey. However, this was never an obstacle for her. She managed to finish university while working to provide for all my needs as a child. My grandfather, with his outdated beliefs, forced her out of the house, and she found refuge in the arms of my aunt. When I was 3 years old, she moved to another city to pursue her profes- sion, returning every 15 days to visit me and ensure I never lacked her love or anything I needed in my childhood. I would go with her during vacations, and she would dedicate all her time and love to me. Despite her responsibilities, her priority was always to see me grow into a good man with a solid education and strong values. She has always been my pillar in all of my projects and goals. Today, I am an administrator and an athlete, and I have grown so much both personally and professionally, all thanks to the example of a mother who does everything and gives everything for her children.
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SOURCE OF INSPIRATION
LETTERS TO MOTHERS
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