The difficulties I’ve experienced in my relationship with my mother have shaped me as much as, if not more than, her strengths. Watching her work ethic and determination was inspiring, but what truly resonates with me is the lesson of balance: reaching for career goals while also honoring family and motherhood. I’ve learned that success isn’t about doing more of one and neglecting the other; it’s about being intentional, present, and mindful in both spheres. In my role as Executive Assistant to the CEO at Gracemark Solutions, I carry this lesson forward by striving for excellence in my career while making space for family, relationships, and self-care. Her example, both the challenges and the achievements, has taught me that leadership and resilience are as much about how you balance your priorities as they are about ambition and hard work.

My mother’s strength was quiet but unwavering. She carried burdens that no one saw, made sacrifices that no one named, and still showed up with grace, dignity, and fierce love. She taught me that leadership begins at home with integrity, with service, and with the courage to choose restoration over resentment. Her example shaped my journey in profound ways: She modeled resilience, I watched her navigate injustice with wisdom, not retaliation. That taught me to lead with discernment. She sacrificed strategically. Every decision she made was for legacy, not applause. That taught me to build with intention, not impulse. Today, I carry her lessons forward by mentoring women to reclaim their voice, rewrite their narrative, and lead from a place of wholeness. I teach that self-love is sacred stewardship, and that boundaries are not barriers they’re bridges to restoration. My mother didn’t just raise me, she equipped me. And every time I speak, lead, or advocate, I’m echoing her legacy.

My mother taught me the kind of strength that doesn’t always make noise, but the kind that keeps going when no one is watching. She modeled resilience through every challenge, never complaining, just finding a way forward. From her, I learned that grace under pressure is its own quiet power.

My mother has always been the quiet force behind everything I've become. She taught me that strength isn't always loud. It's often shown through grace, consistency, and an unwavering belief in what's possible even when circumstances say otherwise. Growing up, I watched her work tirelessly to create stability, often putting others first without ever losing sight of her own dignity or hope. Her example shaped how I lead and live. From her, I learned that sacrifice isn't weakness, but it's a reflection of love and purpose. When I face complex challenges in business or leadership, I think of how she faced hers with calm resolve and a sense of grounded faith that everything was "figureoutable". She never told me to chase success; she told me to chase meaning. That lesson has guided every decision I've made. What stands out most is her ability to move forward with grace under pressure. No matter how heavy the load, she carried it with both humility and pride. That balance has become my compass. In my own journey, I strive to lead with the same heart to be firm yet compassionate, ambitious yet grateful, confident yet kind. Today, I carry her lessons in the way I mentor others and build teams. I remind people that strength is often quiet, resilience is learned, and leadership starts with empathy. My mother's determination built the foundation on which I now stand, and her sacrifices continue to fuel the way I show up for my work, my team, and my future family. Her story is the reminder that every woman's success is a continuation of another woman's courage and that legacy is something I'm proud to carry forward every day.

My mother has been the greatest example of strength and grace in my life. She taught me that no matter the challenge, you show up, give your best, and treat people with kindness along the way. Her determination was quiet but constant. A reminder that real strength doesn't have to be loud to be powerful. From her, I learned that integrity, humility, and compassion matter just as much as hard work and perseverance. Those lessons have shaped every step of my 31-year journey in business. When challenges arise, I often hear her voice reminding me to stay grounded, lead with empathy, and move forward with purpose. Her example continues to guide how I lead, how I treat others, and how I define success, not by titles or achievements, but by the positive impact left on the people around me. "My mother's strength taught me to stand firm in my values; her kindness taught me to lead with heart."

My mother's strength has been the blueprint for my own. She is the definition of perseverance and grace under pressure. When I think about sacrifice, I think of how she paused her own dreams to raise her children, yet never gave up on them. Years later, she returned to school and earned an Associate's degree in Child Development, a Bachelor's degree in General Studies with concentrations in Psychology, Sociology, and Criminal Justice, and ultimately a Master of Education specializing in Child Development. Her journey taught me that purpose and growth are never confined by timing only by our willingness to keep believing. Watching her pursue her goals with faith and determination showed me that success is built on resilience, humility, and unwavering purpose. Her courage taught me to keep pressing forward even when the path feels uncertain, and her compassion reminds me to lead with heart, not ego. Every time I face a challenge, I hear her voice reminding me, "You can do hard things." I carry her lessons with me in how I lead, how I serve, and how I show up for others because her strength didn't just shape me; it continues to sustain and inspire me every single day.

My adoptive mom taught me that love is not defined by blood, but by presence, sacrifice, and faithfulness. She embodied quiet strength; the kind that doesn't seek attention but leaves a lasting mark on everyone it touches. Her determination, discipline, and compassion became the blueprint for how I show up as a woman and a leader. Watching her taught me that true strength lives in humility. She faced challenges with grace and perseverance, teaching me that success isn't measured by what you achieve alone, but by how you serve others along the way. Her sacrifices gave me stability; her example gave me courage. Today, I carry her lessons into my work and my life. From her, I learned to lead with both strength and softness to stand firm in my convictions but remain open, grateful, and kind. Her love made me brave, and her humility made me wise. She didn't just raise me; she shaped the woman I continue to become.

I am the woman I am today because my mother taught me that resilience can be quiet and still move mountains.

My mother and grandmother's dedication to their families and commitment to their roles as stay-at-home moms and caregivers have deeply influenced my journey. Their strength, sacrifice, and determination have taught me valuable lessons that continue to guide me today. The importance of prioritizing family and nurturing strong bonds has been a cornerstone of my upbringing. Witnessing their unwavering dedication and resilience in the face of challenges has instilled in me a strong work ethic and the ability to persevere. Growing up with their examples of empathy and compassion for others has shaped my values and inspired me to make a positive impact in the world. I continue to prioritize building and maintaining strong relationships with my family and friends.