My dearest daughter,

As I type this you are upstairs writing down the list of things you need to do. You have just finished reading a bit of “Pride and Prejudice” to your little brothers and are now encouraging them to fold their clothes. You have already given them baths and changed them. You are also already prepared for bed. You told me that you did all of this “without yelling this time.” You are seven and already are more than I could ever hoped to have been at your age.

Through the past few months, you have been my cornerstone. You take over housework when I need to focus on our family business, you fold the laundry when it gets too much, you literally pick up after me during the sad days and ensured your brothers were always fed, you cry with me when we really just miss Daddy. Your endless chatter, boisterous laughter, and steady sense of responsibility is something I hold on to when the burdens of “the real world” gets to me. Your desire to be a saint is humbling and I cannot thank you enough for praying the rosary with me every day.

When I was younger I admired the missionary heart of Mother Teresa and I longed for the day I would be able to help the poorest of the poor. A part of my heart still yearns for this, but you have shown me that our very own Calcutta is in our own home. As I worry about what tomorrow may bring or the next event I need to plan, you continue each day doing what matters most: loving us and serving us. Thank you for reminding me that love does begin at home. I am incredibly blessed to be loved by you and honoured to be your mum.

There is a strength within you that carries us through the day. I really cannot do this without you by my side.

Thank you for holding on as we navigate this life together.

Love, Mama