In the words of the “late”, great Tupac Shakur:

“Even as a crack fiend, Mama. Ya’ always was a black queen, mama. You are appreciated.”

When it comes to my relationship with my mother, no truer words have ever been spoken.

Well, at least the part about being appreciated.

You are soooo f-ing appreciated, mom. Exclamation point.

My mother has shown up and loved me despite.

Period.

End of sentence.

Despite all the shit I have put her through the years.

Temper tantrums, taking my old man’s side on every issue, attacking her friend because I thought he was hitting on her…

All that shit.

And, especially, for all the times that I took her for granted. She still showed up. She still loved unconditionally.

So, to say that I am grateful for her is the understatement of my lifetime. She truly has never left my side.

I now realize my gratitude for her.

I promise.

I realized this gratitude when I was a little boy.

I realized this gratitude the day I got out of inpatient.

I realized this gratitude on my wedding day.

But even more so today, I live in a constant state of gratitude for her. Even during our arguments, or even during some “foul mouthed tirades” I may go on, or even during my recovering alcoholic mood swings, or even when she is always taking my older sister’s side on everything…

All that shit.

I am grateful, mom, and I love you.

Now, I’ll text you my grocery list.