I’ve been saying “I love you” from the moment I could speak.

Occasional moments of clarity and understanding making the words increase in value.

There were many times when my thoughts did not mirror my words – petulant youth rebelling against rules; clouded anger pulling me away from the hugs and blinding me to the hurt I was causing.

Mother of the family – a worried protector grieving over the losses of others, the hardships of our flock, and the worried clouds of feelings that formed nebulous confusion across continents.

I found it hard to understand you – I saw in you, what I interpreted as weakness, and feared it in myself.

One day, I felt “I love you” and a wall fell. I was bombarded by a sentiment growing deep within me – I was overwhelmed and have been daily since that moment. Transformative words – they have taken evolving shape throughout my life.

“I need you” – “I want to be with you”; I don’t know how else to express the utter worship that is knowing you. Love is insufficient because I feel you like a partner, like an omnipresence that is nurturing and wholesome.

I know now your strength – it takes immense power to feel with the sincerity and selflessness that you do. I saw in you, what I interpreted as weakness, and found it in myself.

I hope I can take an ounce you throughout my life as part of my actions – I love you. I need you. I want to be with you always. You are my mother – and I am humbled to be your daughter. I love you. I need you. I want to be with you always.