I never do this for anyone before they die. But I’ll make one exception here.
I have a tradition of writing a letter to my loved ones when they die.
Dear Mama still makes me cry. To Zeus is my ode to the best dog.
But I’ve always felt bad that one of the greatest people in my life hasn’t gotten her flowers from me yet.
So here it is. And I want you to read it while you’re here with us.
Shashi Thanedar is that person who you always want to be on your side.
You were my hero who came into my life when I was 11, broken, wanting to be loved.
You loved me so much, more than anyone should or could.
You fought to be my mom, even when I was sad and angry that my mom had just died.
You love my children as your own. You always loved me and Samir as your own.
I know it hurts you when I miss my mama. You want to be my mom. You are my mom.
The mom you’re born with isn’t always the one who loves you the rest of your life.
You’re the mom I needed. You made our lives whole again.
I love you so much, Mom. You’re the best.
I’ll always be here for you like you’ve always been here for me.
Now when I see you hold my baby girl Maya, and see that joy on your face, it’s all worth it.
The hard years we had, I struggled through it, I was angry, sad, and you fought by my side the whole way.
You didn’t have to do it, no one made you, but you decided to save me.
I love you so much and I hope you know how much you mean to me.
You’re the best mom I ever wanted or needed.
Love you, Mom.
Sometimes technology automatically asks the questions you‘re afraid to ask yourself.
Yes, this is my Mom. Love you forever!