To Sandy. And All Women in General

I absolutely loved Mother's Day yesterday. I loved getting onto Instagram and seeing so many beautiful pictures of and words about, strong, capable, and loving women. Mother's (and women in general) are incredible. They help mold tiny little cretins into (hopefully) kind, compassionate, innovative individuals. Good women are more powerful than any nuclear weapon or fascist government, for they have the ability to shape a brighter and more positive future. 

Neal A. Maxwell described it much more poetically than I when he said; 

"When the real history of mankind is fully disclosed, will it feature the echoes of gunfire or the shaping sound of lullabies? The great armistices made by military men or the peacemaking of women in homes and in neighborhoods? Will what happened in cradles and kitchens prove to be more controlling than what happened in congresses? When the surf of the centuries has made the great pyramids so much sand, the everlasting family will still be standing, because it is a celestial institution, formed outside telestial time. The women of God know this."

Whether at home raising the rising generation or out making the world better by other means, I salute all women for their positive influences in my life and the lives of everyone around them. 

Meet Sandy. My mother is so unassumingly perfect. She is quietly compassionate, hilarious, fun, patient, intelligent, and happy. She has taught me that life is meant to be lived, that sick days at work should be used for "mental health" powder days, and that it is much better to listen in order to understand, rather than listen so you can get back to talking. There were always good books to be read, bike rides to go on, and fun to be had when I was growing up. On top of all that, my mom is so pure-hearted. All she wants is to be "a good person", an expectation I think she surpassed many years ago. She is my hero, I hope to be like her someday. My day isn't complete without checking in with her to get her advice, hear that I am loved, and feel peace. Honestly, my relationship with her has taught me so much about who God is and my relationship with him. Sandy is the epitome of serenity and peace, all can feel it when she is near. Thank you for always being my best friend and confidant. You are so amazing.

One of my favorite pictures because she looks so happy for me. I have never doubted that she loves all of her children so deeply. 

I love you, Mom.