Dear Mom,
Thank you for being my mom. You don't know this, but I'll often stare at you and say “I'm glad you're my mom.” What are the odds you would end up with me? Lol!
As I grew older I didn't really realize how crazy your story is. The resiliency of what you have been able to be as a mother to Ulysses and I is incredible. From you I discovered a love for math, the NY Knicks, old school music, history, and neck bones. From a distance I learned consistency, discipline, and how to go against the grain.
For over 20 years I watched you fight crime and fight for youth in NYC public schools. What most people didn't see was the alarm that would go off every morning at 3:40am, and that most nights you didn't return home until 9pm. You never missed a day of work and you did all of this with a smile and minimal complaints. In fact most of the complaints were geared towards teachers and administrators that were not looking out for the best interests of the kids.
So mom, I want you to know that you are my inspiration, and I mean that. As one career comes to an end and a new one begins, I'm proud of you and proud to be your son. I'm looking forward to being a guest speaker at the Day Care you open up in 2021.
*Cues music "Never Would've Made it" by Marvin Sapp.*
Your Son,
Xavier