On November 29, 2018, my life changed forever. It was on this day that I lost my mother. I knew that someday, this moment would come. But I was never sure that I'd be strong enough to make the decisions that would need to be made or take on the responsibilities that would come along with it.The reason for this is that even though my mother always respected me as a man, I always felt like her little boy. And it wasn't until that day came that I truly felt like an adult and realized that my mom had given me all the necessary gifts that I would need to be successful in life.Some of the lessons that she taught me were intentional, while other lessons I learned from simply observing her in her daily life.It was very rare to ever see my mother without a smile on her face. No matter how bad her day may have been or how bad she may have felt, she was always smiling and never wanted anyone to feel sorry for her. She was strong in this way.When it came down to it, and she had to do what needed to be done to make ends meet, she never complained and did what needed to be done. She was determined in this way.She always treated people as she would want to be treated, even if they did not treat her the same way. She was kind, caring, and would do anything she could to help someone in need. She was respectful in this way.At the age of 42, I would have to call my mom when I got to my destination so she would know that I arrived safely. She would always ensure me that I was never alone and that she would always have my back. And in her eyes, I could do no wrong. She was loving in this way.Not enough can be said about how much she meant to me and how much of a role model she was. And I am grateful for all of the gifts she has given me. For it is these gifts that made me the man I am today. I will cherish the time that I spent with her always and will never forget her.Mom, I love you.