speech

"Truly, Madly, Deeply"

A few years ago, our youngest daughter and I went back to school together for paralegal certificates. One of the required classes was Speech. The final assignment in that class was to write and present a speech about someone or something that had changed our lives. This is her speech. When she had finished, not only she and I were in tears, but 99% of the class was as well.

Everyone in this class has asked at one time or another, "How is it going to school with your mother?" or "How is it going to school with your daughter?" Well, I guess it's time to actually tell the truth and share with everyone my feelings.

My mother has been one of the most understanding, caring and loving persons. Even though we have had our differences, she has put up with me for the past nine months. Whether I was making her late for class when I slept through the alarm clock or just being a pain. Looking back on these past nine months, my mother has made me a better person and she made me realize I have a lot going for me.

It is hard for me to admit, but I was actually wrong for once in my life. I remember asking my mom to go back to school with me because it would be fun and it would better her life. I'm sorry, Mom, but I never thought you would say yes. You sure did surprise me, but I now know that this was one of the smartest things I have done in a while.

In the beginning, it started out as a competition. We wondered who could get the better grades. As you are all aware, there is no competition. My mother is clearly more dedicated, hard working and a lot more serious about life in general than I ever thought of ever being.

I never would have made it without my mother. She always made a copy of her notes for me when she typed them out. She would help me study when we had a big test. She would even help me with my final projects when I would put them off to the last minute. She would always say, "You better start on your projects soon or you are going to regret it." Then when the time came, she didn't even think twice when I asked for some help. She has simply been wonderful.

I still wonder how we made it through nine months without killing each other. I also wonder how you all put up with the arguing between the both of us. But guess what? We are almost there.

I just want my mother to know that I owe her my life. I love her and I am very proud of her accomplishments. I wish her the best of luck in her new career and I hope to be as successful as she is someday.

Well, I hope I answered everyone's question on how it is going to school with your mother. It's not so bad. You just need patience and you need to make a lot of sacrifices. If I had the chance, I would do it again. It's always worth it in the end.
~ Lenice Lappert ~

I doubt that she realizes just how much she helped me through those classes, too. Needless to say, I am so very proud of her and her great ability to do the demanding job of a paralegal ~ I'm not real sure if she knows it or not, but I honestly believe that she is better at it than I will ever be.
I love you, Neecer.
~ Mom ~