There are those who say we choose our life’s path on a soul level before we enter this world—all the good, the bad, and even the hard. They say we choose the people who will shape us, right down to our parents. And I thank God every second of every day for giving me my mom and dad.
These past two months have been the hardest of my life. Losing my dad and now saying goodbye to my mom feels impossible to navigate. But when I think about who my mom is, I find my strength.
My mom is the strongest person I have ever known. At just 17, she left her home in Peru and came to this country alone. No parents, no English—just a young, beautiful girl with a dream of building a better life. And I pray she knows she accomplished that.
She met my dad, and together they built our family—starting with me, then my sister and brother. My mom was the glue that held us all together. The second she became a mom, she dedicated herself to us with everything she had.
She taught us unconditional love. She taught us strength—to keep going even when life feels impossible. She taught us to see the beauty in the world.
Between my brother, my sister and I, we blessed my parents with 5 grandchildren. And she loved them just as fiercely. She traveled with us, laughed with us, and shared her love of music, dance, and the beach. She lived for those moments.
When my mom was diagnosed, she didn’t let it break her. She told me, “Melissa, I’ve lived a good life.” Even when I cried, she held me and said, “Don’t cry. Remember the happy times and my love.”
That is the strength of my mom. Even after my dad passed, she fought to stay strong—for us. For her family.
Mommy, it’s because of you that I know I have the strength to face what lies ahead. You and Daddy trusted me with that strength, and I promise to honor it.
Mommy, I love you. Thank you for being the best mom. You are our heart, our strength, and our light. We will carry your love with us every single day.
