Happy Mother's Day

5/13/12

Michelle Zhang

Dear Mom,

I hope that you have had a good time in China with Grandpa!

It's Mother's Day, so I thought that I would write you an email to show you my appreciation for everything that you do for me: 

Thank you for being the most inspirational figure in my life. I know that I'm not always very responsive when you tell me about the strife that you went through in order to get to where you are, but I want you to know that I am always, always continually impressed. Just the fact that you had the courage to leave everything you knew in order to start a new life here in America is incredible. I can only hope to one day be half as courageous as you have been. I know that you have kept your head down and worked extraordinarily hard to get to where you are today, and this inspires me to develop a strong work ethic. It makes me realize that America still is a place where hard work pays off. 

Thank you for showing me that independence is a blessing. I know so few people who are so comfortable being on their own, but you have taught me that being independent is one of the greatest catalysts for personal development. I, like so many people around you, think it's amazing that sometimes you take your photography trips and explore the world on your own and love it that way. Because of the way that you have lived your life, I will always remember the importance of being independent. 

Thank you for always supporting me in everything I do. I know I threw you for a loop when I told you that I wanted to go into medicine, but look - now I'm really doing it! And I couldn't have done it without your guidance. Thank you for always being able to provide everything for me; I have never felt like I would have to compromise the quality of my education because of financial reasons. I know that a lot of other kids have, and I am thankful every day that I don't have to worry about that facet of my education. Fear not - I promise that I will do justice to the vast amount of money that you're about to spend on Boston University! 

Thank you for always trying to teach me. I know that your wisdom comes from years of experience and learning, and that I would do well to take your advice. Sometimes it seems like I don't listen, but the important stuff - I always remember it. I am thankful that I grew up with your guidance, but also with your trust. I think that the things that you have bestowed upon me are the truly important things, and the things that you have allowed me to do (which you haven't always agreed with) have resulted in me becoming my own person, with my own passions and direction and convictions. You have handled parenting perfectly, and I hope to prove that to you one day. 

I know that you have many doubts about your parenting. But trust me, you have done better than anyone else I know. I am so thankful to have you as my mom! Happy Mother's Day, I love you!

- Chelle Chelle