There was a good amount of time that I took my mother for granted. I did not thank her, I did not say I love her and I did not tell how much I appreciate everything she has done for me; that was selfish of me. My mother, Inez Morales, is simply my hero.

Not only is she my mother, but she also fills in the gap of the absence of a father for me and my siblings by giving all of her love and care to us no matter what the circumstance is. My mother is honestly super cool, and I’m not just saying that to brag. She has made so many great accomplishments in her life and in her career that I hope one day I can follow in her footsteps.

There are specific things that really do make me believe that my mother is simply extraordinary.

First off, she is extremely funny. Everywhere she goes she leaves everyone in hysterical laughter. My mother has taught me that even in some of the most upsetting situations, there is always room for a joke and a big smile. Now that I think about it, I am pretty sure the only reason why my friends came to sleepovers at my house was to hear her jokes all night until they passed out.

My mother is extremely determined. She is a woman who is going to get and achieve what she wants. My mom is very goal-driven, and I believe and am thankful that her drive has rubbed off on me to the point where I am like my mother’s shadow. She never ever gives up, no matter how impossible some of her tasks seem. In her career, she is such a hard worker that it inspires not only me and my siblings, but the people that she mentors at her job. I hear all the time that people want to have the skill set that my mother has, and that is super cool because that is my mother!

Lastly, my mother is my best friend. She knows when I am super happy or when I am super upset. If I am super upset, she always asks me if it is because of someone. She’ll ask, “Who do I need to beat down?” And while yes, it is aggressive, it makes me smile. She has given me some of the best advice no matter what the subject, she has pushed me to do what I love and she has taught me how to be extraordinary just like her.

To you, my mother, yes, you, Inez! Thank you and I love you. Thank you for putting up with me through my terrible teen years. Thank you for all the love and care you show to me and my siblings. I know I do not say this a lot, but I am truly thankful for all that you do.
To everyone reading this, do me a favor—take out your phone, call your mom or your mother figure and tell her how much you love her.