My mother has never, ever given up. She came to America when she was four years old and was given the responsibility to raise her two younger brothers, while her newly immigrated Polish parents tried to find work and happiness in this new world. She would cook, clean, raise her brothers, translate English, and play with dolls at the same time.
My mother grew up independently and courageously, later ending up married and with two rascals of offspring.

Now me and my younger brother were no angel children and we gave her and my father hell. As a typical teen I would challenge her on every and all decisions. But she stuck strong to her beliefs and values, and with time natured now two prized children.

Her and my father hit a rocky patch about a year ago. She realized the emotional abuse he fostered on her from time to time and said enough. They separated and moved out. This devastated my still young and growing brother, and my newly college student, vunerable self. They eventually both started seeing counselors. My father became a new man both mentally and physically and to this day, whisks her away every saturday night for salsa dancing downtown. She held faith in our family that would stay together when we all saw it crumbling apart.

Now she wakes at 4am every morning to work just so she’s guaranteed to be back for dinner. With not only working a grueling day so she can help with my tuition and my brother’s sports adventures, but she also cares for an unofficial son of hers. My mother took in a neighbor boy by the name of Jay Jay, that had abusive, unsupportive, and drugged out guardians. While still in high school, Jay Jay would come over for Sunday dinner, rest in the guest bedroom when his home was too much, and receive the love from my mother and father that he never had. My mother, like she did for us, encouraged Jay Jay in applying and attending college, pushed for extracurricular activities and gave him hope. Jay Jay is now attending a state college with aspirations in a dental career. He calls home every now and then to check in and visit when ever in town.
Now on top of that, she recently has taken in a young homeless boy that was found living in our camper.

She welcomed this boy with open arms, a warm meal, and a couch with blankets. He recently turned 18 years old, and with this age his father kicked him out of his home. She’s allowing Tyler to stay at our house, until he finds a job, and a proper shelter for underprivileged teens. She gives Tyler food, a mood of transportation to help in his search, and a hug and kiss goodnight that has been way overdue.

My mother is a saint. From the age of four, to this very day she continues to stay strong, never giving up on herself, her family, or the world around.

She is an inspiration. That does this kindness purely from the good in her heart, and does is all with soul lifting smile.

I love my mother. I am proud that she is my mom. She is my best friend, my star for safe landing, and my inspiration.

My mom deserves this makeover, to show she is appreciated, and loved, not only by me and my family, but by those in this lost and lonely world needing a loving hug.

Sincerely, her daughter,
Nicole.