Happy Birthday to my Mommy

Things My Mommy Taught Me:

My mommy taught me that helping people might not be easy, or convenient, but it's still the right thing to do. (She neglected to mention that most of the people that you help will be largely unappreciative. I had to learn that on my own. I also learned how nice it is when someone does appreciate you.)

My mommy taught me that I don't have to like stupid people, but I do have to be polite to them. (Until they start cussing at me. Then I can give them "The Look" and ignore them.)

My mommy taught me that there are many opinions. I don't have to accept yours. I just have to accept that you have as much right to it as I have to mine. (She originally tried to teach me that I wasn't always right, but she failed miserably. So she amended that lesson.)

My mommy taught me that I am special. (She didn't teach me that I'm more special-er than everyone else. I picked that up on my own.)

My mommy taught me that talking back and not doing what I was told could be dangerous to the health of my behind. Consequently, my butt grew padding to protect itself, and I learned to do what I was told. (I still talk back, though.)

My mommy taught me that if you're going to take the time to do something, you might as well do it right the first time. (Which turned me into a rabid perfectionist. With borderline OCD.)

My mommy taught me that it was OK to stand up for your beliefs. (And then put up with me as my beliefs changed on a daily basis.)

My mommy taught me how to love someone even when they break your heart. (She didn't, however, warn me how hard it would be.)

My mommy taught me that homemade food is the best. (Especially homemade chocolate chip cookies.)

My mommy taught me not to spend more than I make. (Thanks to her I have an excellent credit score and complete paranoia about said score.)

My mommy taught me so many things. And I learned all by myself how lucky I was to have her for my mommy.

Happy Birthday, Mommy. I love you.