Because You Loved Me

My parents and husband are the three most influential people who shaped the woman I am today. Each of them lives on in me today as I wander the world without them. So I chose to write about how each of them continues to shine through the person I am today.

Mom, the world can see you in me in the way that I will talk with anyone and find out their story. I’m curious about the world I live in. When I see a good buy, I think that’s my mom knowing how to survive in the world. I inherited my adventurous spirit for exploring new places from you. I always want to learn new things, which you did until you couldn’t. You are the wings that showed me how to fly.

Dad, the world can see your shape in me because I want to do the right thing. The compassion I carry for others comes from the seeds you sowed. When I treat people with respect, they see the man you were. People’s position in life never mattered; you treated them all the same. Fidelity to your friends and family was your hallmark, and I hope I can do at least half as well as you did.

Because you loved me, Mike, I have built a life for myself. You introduced me to new genres of music and theater. You encouraged me in my endeavors as I tried new things. I wouldn’t have had a tutoring business if you weren’t so supportive. You gave me the gift of our children, each teaching me lessons and helping me to grow as a person. You supported my creative pursuits as I looked for my place in the world. I even wrote a book. It didn’t matter that it didn’t get published; you gave me the space to explore this side of me. You believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. That has helped me as I’ve traveled without you for the last ten years.

I’m an amalgamation of the love and example of these fantastic people. As long I live, they will live on.