For Her Birthday.

Today is an exceptional day. Today is the day when the most inspiring woman to me was born. This time somewhat 50 years ago, the woman who would impact the rest of my life and encourage me to become the woman I am today was born. She is not famous to the masses, and this is probably for the best. I personally do not think the masses could handle the strength this woman possesses. Today is my mother's birthday.

My mother is the ultimate inspiration for me. Whenever I am faced with a tough decision, or whenever life gets hard (because let's face it, I am not 6 years old and protected from the ugliness of the world anymore), I just think of my mum. The woman who raised me, the woman who protected me, the woman who stood by me at every step of the way, the woman who always, no matter what, believes in me. Whenever I think of her journey since I can remember, all I picture is a woman with a fierce attitude, and unshaken strength, who carries so much love in her heart, and her resilience to whatever life threw at us.

I remember when my dad left to work in the UK, to provide for the family. My mum closed the door behind my dad, I went into my room, hid behind the door and started crying. My mum went into the kitchen, lit up a cigarette and started crying. I went to my mum, and I tried to put on a brave face, and said 'we will be fine'. Mum looked at me and gave me a strong, loving, reassuring hug. That's when I was certain-we will be fine.

It was not an easy road. My mum and I can be very stubborn, and we are also very different people. Naturally, sparks, some big, some small were bound to light. These are pretty normal things which happen in families. At no point, however, no matter how bad the arguments got, no matter how much I messed up (because I really messed up at some points) had my mum ever given up on me. She fought for me; she always inspired me; she always pushed me to think big, to reach for the top, and to never give up, and stay strong. I love my mum.

My mum has been through so much in her life, that I could write a book about, however, this is not the purpose of the post. The purpose is that no matter what life had thrown at her, no matter how difficult things got for her, for us, she stood tall, courageous, protective, loving, and moved forward. When she found herself having to raise me (not the most chilled out child in the world) on her own for the most part of my childhood, she was scared, I know she was. Nevertheless, she took this challenge. She pushed and fought, and worked her sweat off for the better of our family. I do not think there will ever be a way for me to repay my mum for everything she has done for us. The wealth of the whole world could not match it. I can only wish that I am and will be half as strong, loving and fearless as you, mum. I only know I try every day. You inspire me.

It is hard knowing I cannot be with you to celebrate your day. I am also aware that due to the unprecedented times it is probably for the best, but it is hard nonetheless. I love you dearly and cannot wait to come home and see you. I know I have not been the easiest to deal with, but I do love you more than I can express in words. You are my main inspiration, you are the best. You are my mum. Happy Birthday.