Ode to My Mother

Dear mom,

If I could, I would take back all the mean things I've ever said to you.
I would have never argued with you. Or raised my voice. Or made you cry.
I would have listened to all your advice, because in the end, you were always right anyway.

If I could, I would make all your dreams come true.
I would get you the house you've always wanted--
A beautiful ranch home. Resting on a white sandy beach. With big windows that allowed all the sun to shine in .
There would be a giant kitchen with marble counter tops. And an endless pool. And a wooden deck so you could watch the sunrise every morning.
Ashwin would cook us gourmet meals.
And I would bake us fresh banana nut muffins. You would always eat the bottom of the muffin cause you knew the top was my favorite..
We would share bottles of cab from your perfectly stocked wine rack. And watch horrible movies that Ashwin picked out.
We would have the best holidays there...

For 20 years, you've stood by my side.
You've tucked me in every night. Sang me lullabies. Rubbed my back. And massaged my feet.
You've taught me how to ride a bike. Braid my hair. And tie me shoes.
Because of you,
I know right from wrong.
I know how to make sacrifices. And I know when to say "no."
Because of you,
I know what it's like to be loved and accepted.
Because of you,
I know that I'll be more than just okay...