I have included this because I would like the world to know how lucky it is to have these three exceptional young ladies.

August 30, 1997

My beautiful daughters, you are each starting a new phase of your life, stepping into unfamiliar territory. This is my way of wishing you success on your jouneys and to thank you for all of the gifts you have given me.

You have taught me that strength doesn't have anything to do with physical size, it comes from deep in your heart and your soul. You each have a strength unique to you.

Faith, you have always been so responsible. I know that isn't an easy hat to wear, but you have always worn it with aplomb. I want you to know that it's ok to take that hat off sometimes and let someone else wear it. Consider this your gift to those you love. We only grow when we take responsibility for ourselves and our actions. It will be hard for you to do, but do it in little steps to start with. By moving into your own apartment, you are letting your sisters have the chance to be responsible for themselves. They will make some mistakes, but they have you as an example, they'll be fine.

Sarah, when I look at you I marvel at the strength you have. Even before you knew what the word meant, your strength pulled you through the toughest obstacles anyone could ever face. And through the years, that fighter in you has grown and developed. When you doubt yourself, look back and know that you've licked death, you can get the best of any circumstance that comes your way. Nothing else in life can ever be as difficult. So just draw on that part of you and you can make it.

Becca, your strength is the peace in your soul. You came into this world a happy, contended baby. As the years have passed, you have developed into a young lady whose acceptance of others and situations is amazing. You don't try to change them, you just know them for what they are. It doesn't make them good or bad, but allows you to deal with the situations the way they really are. When you have tackled a task you have quietly plugged away until that task was accomplished. It hasn't mattered whether it was coloring a picture or mastering a major goal.

The joy and laughter you three have given me is truly a gift from God. The sound of your laughter is the sound of angels. Even the sound of your tears has reminded me of angels crying. The little things have always been so special with us, like watching the world go by, you three walking in the rain in Mississippi. One of the most pleasurable things in my life was holding you as you fell asleep and listening to your breathing. And as the years have passed, each phase of your life has been just as wonderful, if not better than the previous one. I thank God every day for the moments he has given me with you.

You have shown me, a mere mortal, what the grace of God is. You have loved me, laughed with me and at me, cried with me and played with me. At times I have fallen short of what I should have been as your mother, but it never mattered. You were there with your grace.

I know it hasn't always been easy, we certainly don't have the normal "apple pie" family, but most people would give anything to have children like you. Never once have you spoken to me with anything but respect, not that we always agree on everything. I would never want you to agree unquestioningly with anyone. But throughout all of this life, we have been able to discuss things. You all have exceptional minds, and God gave them to you to use. I value your opinions and always will.

My darling daughters, you are my gift to the world. You have given my life value, joy and love. If I consider myself the richest woman on this earth. I gladly give you three to the world, may it treat you with kindness and love. But know in your hearts that whatever this life has to give you, you can handle it and become richer from the experience. If you can walk through this life with belief in yourselves, God and each other, you will accomplish wonderous things. I hope that I have given you the things you need, but you know that always I am here for you.

This is my gift to you - always remember this: Faith is knowing that when you have traveled through the light and come to the darkness, that when you step into the darkness you will either find a firm foothold or learn to fly. My children, may you always have a firm foothold, but always be open to flying. Go through this life with laughter in your heart and soul and it will be a most enjoyable trip.

My blessings,

Mom

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