I don't know that words can accurately describe what wonderful person my mom was. In my opinion, she should be canonized as a saint. Maybe she is lacking the miracle however I think raising five kids by herself in the perfect way she did qualifies. There are so many examples where my mom's character and strength shown through in situations where others would have folded. From standing by and supporting me unconditionally when I got into trouble to simply standing up and accepting the tremendous task of raising five kids when she realized she would be on her own. I don't know that I would have responded with the strength and dignity that she did. I am certain that I would not be where I am now without her love, support and sacrifice.
My mom was kind and selfless, always thinking of others and never of herself. Every single decision she made was for the benefit of her family. On top of the enormous task of raising her children alone, she also accepted the responsibility of caring for her older, mentally ill brother at the same time. She found him housing to live in so he would not be homeless and visited him regularly. In addition, she also somehow found time to care for her own mother after she was widowed. I simply can't imagine the strength it would have taken to do everything she did. I can see where she inherited these qualities as her own parents were of a similar makeup. Her father particularly was a wonderful person who I loved very much and who was also taken from us way too early.
With all the burden that was placed on my mom's shoulders, I never once heard her complain about anything. In fact, she always kept her great sense of humor and positive attitude which was hugely comforting to all around her. She was simply the kindest, strongest, most selfless person I have ever met. I am honored that she was my mother. I love you mom.