I've always had a good relationship with my mother. Great, in fact. I know, without a doubt, that the way she raised me is the reason I'm the person I am today. Am I as kind as her? No. Am I as forgiving as her? No. But I strive to be.
I'm sure I would've turned out differently if my mother was anything other than who she is. And not in a good way. But then again, you never know.
I know numerous people who've grown into extraordinary human beings even though they had terrible mothers and those who grew up to be scums with the best mothers. I also know that being on the outside looking in, is not a good way to judge a situation.
But I am grateful I was born to my mother. I wish I had her heart. I wish I was as extraordinary as she is. And I know she'll disagree and tell me, "But you're the most extraordinary woman I know." That's the kind of person she is.
That's the kind of person all mothers are. Our nurturers. Our heroes. Our first and forever best friends.