Happy Birthday in heaven, Mom. It seems like yesterday that God called you home to His Kingdom. 

Memories of you float freely in my mind, and they’re forever embroidered on my heart. Your love, light, and legacy lives within me for the rest of my days. How I miss your booming and startling laugh—it would command the attention of any room. Your boisterous personality and distinct voice is unforgettable to many. I admire the ‘Mama bear’ that you were (it made my heart happy.) The love you had for your children ran deeper than written words could ever describe. You were stern, yet, so loving and protective. You’d always say to me, “You’re going to understand the depth of my love for you when you have children.” And now, I do. 

As I’ve gotten older through the years, wisdom has gripped me, and I realize your teachings courses through my veins. Your relentless work ethic is imprinted on me. You would be so proud of me, I know it. I can hear your voice echoing loudly, “Girl, I’m so proud of you! Gone, gal!” in your Southern Mama accent. I’ve always wanted to make you proud to have a daughter like me. To be a reflection of you and all of the things you taught me about becoming a woman. 

Thank you for your tough love when I needed it. I’m grateful for you pushing me to be better and not settling for less out of me. You demanded respect, manner-able behavior, to say yes ma’am and no ma’am, yes sir, and no sir to my elders, or any adult. To carry myself like a lady, with dignity and class. Morals and values were the epitome of who you were and what you expected your children to emulate. 

A heartfelt thank you for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself. According to you, I could do anything I set my mind too. Walk on Mars, heal the sick, or even win an Academy Award. 

I would be remiss if I didn’t say, sometimes I look off into the distance, and I feel my warm tears trickle down my face, thinking of you. I wish you were here to wipe them away. I wish you were here so I could hug you tight one more time. You were the wind beneath my fragile wings, Mom. I know that you’re here today, and your love reigns down on me from heaven. God answered my prayer, and He allowed me to feel your presence today. 

(I’ve always associated ladybugs with your presence that lingers around me). 

This morning, I arrived to work, and a ladybug was on my desk—I knew it was you. An hour later, my co-worker walked into my office from a trip to Washington DC with a gift. She said to me, “God lead me to get a specific gift for you from The Basilica of the National Shrine of Immaculate Conception.” I opened the bag, and it was a ladybug bracelet with a cross and Virgin Mary on it. My eyes welled with tears. Her gift touched my heart in a way that only God could do. 

On this day, Mom, I feel your presence and your love. I take comfort in knowing that you are resting well in a beautiful and serene place. All is well within my soul as I feel at peace.

I love you, Mom. You’re forever in my heart as you live in me.