They say
I have a great smile...
They tell me
I'm intelligent and articulate
witty and clever...
They appreciate
my musical and artistic abilities...
I can be thoughtful.
I like to give meaningful gifts.
I enjoy cooking.
I have an eye for design and pattern.
I am a late bloomer, but I believe
I've become
quite...
lovely...
I'm a writer.
I would follow Jesus at the cost of my life...

Sometimes I think I'm...
pretty great.
Yet...
I can't take all of the credit,

because

i can clearly trace backwards to each point of conception: the opportunities offered, examples set forth, foundations established, nurturing given, sacrifices made, hopes infused, prayers spoken
... by you.

And if they could spend
just a few moments
with you
they'd know
why I am
who I am.

You're beautiful
and I love you.
Happy Mother's Day.