Dear Mother

When I was young, you always would dream about me becoming successful. The thought of failure never seemed to pass your mind at any given time. So for you my Mother, I devote this appreciative rhyme.

I thank the Lord for blessing me with such a wonderful person in my life whose every motive was to comfort and support me. To teach and guide me with all the rightful knowledge and useful rules. Since I was born, you swore I was a gift. Compared to others extremely different. Raising me to be an independent man, to fulfill all my goals, and overcome all obstacles. These are my own words on how much I love you and appreciate all the things you've done. Through all the pain and all the lies, keeping my head focused, devoted towards making sure I always strive. When I was confused and twisted, motivation from you made me know I could always rise, even in elementary school when I was a problem child, putting you through misery, and even with all the trouble you've been through with my sister leaving our household at fifteen. I really missed her, growing up alone because she wasn't there. Her not being a part of our family, that part to me wasn't clear. Who would believe a troublesome kid like me would turn out to be the way I did. Your many ways of ridiculing me did a lot of good. This is my confession since I should embrace the truth, these words are living proof. Listen clearly as I sign this letter. Dearly to my Mother.

Dear Mother don't worry I'm going to watch for snakes. Tell Antoine I love him. It used to be so hard to say what I felt inside before I learned from you not to conceal any of my thoughts, courage, and pride. As I sit and reminisce, how did it ever come to this? When I was alone you were there for me. Never left me alone 'cause you cared for me — tender and sweet with love and care. My father at times showed the same affections, but for some reason it never felt the same. Physically and mentally he was there, but emotionally it was different. I still give him gratitude for showing me that he is a man striving through. In between all the times I got myself in heavy trouble you stayed by my side. I never had to worry about you not being there to hold my head high when I couldn't stare to face society's endless corruption and conspiracy. Low self-esteem was my greatest weakness, but faith in you proved to me it was a minor flaw. "Don't respect others who don't respect you and always speak the truth," you'd say. I can never stop cherishing a person like you. So listen clearly as I sign this letter. Dearly to my Mother.

I used to cry myself asleep when we had beefs. Tears would drop on my pillows and stain the sheets. I think about past memories full of all the caring and committed things you did for me. Even now when I think it's hopeless you get me back on track to stay focused. There isn't a book with phrases to help me express how I feel. So maybe this will alleviate the pain that's inside you still. You tried your best to keep me happy, giving me everything I wanted and didn't need. Never kept secrets from me, a true mother indeed. Could you picture your son a man, soon as I get home from this distant land? We were always close, but separate during situations I hated. Our love was just too strong, staying separated became really hard to bear. With so much to lose, I was confused feeling mentally abused. You told me, "Things will never change. Even though it seems strange, always hold your ground and son expect the pain." I must admit having a hard head only added to my problems, but still I wouldn't quit until I was finished with all my business. You used to say, "As high as the sky and as big as the world, that's how much I love you and more." Now you shall see all your hard work did something positive for me. Listen clearly as I sign this letter. Dearly to my Mother.

Love, Robert

Robert M., 18
Boston, Massachusetts

* Reprinted from Positive Teens Magazine Volume 2 Issue 3, May/June 2000

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