November 5, 2021

“My mother is my best friend.”

For the longest time I wanted to declare this very statement. Growing up, my mom and I were always close, but we were not best friends. One moment we would bicker and the next we would make up; our relationship was unpredictable. As a teenager, I tended to lose my patience when my mother would ask me about my latest pop quiz or Saturday night plans. Annoyed, I would always tell her I couldn’t wait to go to college, to get away. However, it wasn’t until I moved away for college that I realized how I took my relationship with her for granted.

In an unfamiliar town that became my new home, making new friends, navigating myself around the campus, and adjusting to a new school schedule made me anxious. I was fearful and felt alone. I remember one particular night at the start of school - for the first time, I craved my mother’s comfort, curiosity, hugs, and voice. I settled into my dorm and picked up the phone. My leg shook, and my heart race accelerated, worried my mom might not pick up. But it only took one ring for my mom to answer.

“Hi Soph!” she exclaimed. I took a deep breath and immediately felt relaxed.

My mom’s voice calmed me. Although I wasn’t in the room right next to her, I felt her presence. She was still there for me when I needed her.

I am now a sophomore, and to this day, regardless of when I call, my mom answers the phone within seconds. If she misses a call, she calls back immediately. On average, I probably speak with her at least three times daily. Some may characterize our relationship as crazy, but I consider it unique - a special bond that two people share when they understand and trust each other. This uniqueness is rare and developed over time, but I wouldn’t give it up for the world.

With the stresses of college on my mind, I give my mom the run-down of every conflict in my life. The social drama, a disappointing grade, boy dilemmas  – she knows it all. No matter how upset I may be, my mom somehow knows what to say to make me feel better. Like magic, I have a smile on my face. And when I share with her something positive, whether it’s academic, social, or even a funny story, she celebrates my happiness with me. 

I can now declare with full pride that my mom is my absolute best friend. I do not just say that because I am supposed to say it. I have come to realize that my mom and I act alike and think alike in many, many ways. Yes, we bicker and fight, but our honesty, level of comfort, and open talks with one another allow us to grow closer each time we have a disagreement.

The older I get, the more I find myself desiring to emulate my mom. I admire her kind, genuine, and honest nature. She has a heart of gold. She is an optimist and always acts in a selfless manner. She always puts her family before herself. She is a true friend. And whenever I perceive my glass as half empty, my mom is the one who teaches me to fill it up.

Prior to college, I never truly appreciated what my mom did for me. Now I realize how lucky I am. I would not be who I am today if it were not for my mom’s encouragement and support. Growth and maturity have helped me to realize the way my mom serves as a role model to me - through her values, warmth, selflessness, and kindness. Each day, I strive to make her proud and follow in her footsteps.  She has taught me so much - especially the beauty of being able to call my mother my best friend.

“My mother is my best friend.”