Today is a special day!

I want to tell you about me and my mother. Today is her birthday and I want to stand still for a moment and see all that she has given to me and what she means to me.

She was there to love me, feed me and clean me when I couldn’t even say my own name. She brought me to school, nurtured me and taught me how to ride a bike so one day, when the time would be ripe, I could cycle proudly to school on my own. She stimulated me to grow, praised my talents and my interests and wanted me to succeed in life. As all mothers do, she had a time in which she might have wanted me to be more than I had to offer (for the moment). She was there for me to give me hope and keep the family going when I lost my father. She was always ready to reflect on what she could do better, do differently or stop doing for my well being in a phase when I didn't give any attention to my or anyone else's well being. She was there to accept me as I was, while I didn't and it was so easy not to. She was there to talk to me and show me her love in a time when I couldn't let anyone near (she was so persistent it got quite annoying)...

Her efforts didn't go unnoticed and they haven't been without effect. I have had a safe and loving home in a time when I was very vulnerable and I am very grateful for that. She stimulated my wish for personal growth and admired me when I was able to learn, to become more conscious and to love myself. Now I am strong and going my own way, living in a different country and can therefore not nearly see her as much as I would like to. But the connection is there and it will always be there.

Thank you Ciel: for your love, your dedication and your understanding. You are a goddess! Happy birthday!