Parents. Guardians. Caretakers. Foster Family. Adoptive Family.

These are just some of the people in our lives who have the greatest responsibility to watch and protect the world’s future: our youth.

Somedays, I can’t believe anyone makes it from infancy to adulthood. There are so many issues that could overtake and end our lives, such as illness or accidents, nevermind abuse. Tonight, I was watching Chime for Change on NBC. It was a musical fundraiser for women’s rights worldwide. It reminded me of all the people who made it possible for me to become an adult.

I don’t give my mom enough credit. I don’t necessarily always agree with her methods, but the fact remains that all she’s ever done is for the good of her children. She wanted us to know that life is not easy, there are challenges, and although she might not have agreed with our decisions, she has always been here for us. Who do we call when the chips are down? Mom. Who is always ready with a meal? Mom. Who keeps the memory of our father alive and well? Mom. Who bails us out when we make boo-boos? Mom.

Thank you, mom, for guiding me on the steps of life.