My backbone

 There is someone in everyone’s life that influences him or her immensely. This person could be a relative or a best friend; a movie star or a storybook character. Whoever it is, they are there, happy or sad, most tragic moment or the pinnacle, life-changing experience. Everyone is different; therefore everyone has a different influence. Groups of people may have the same influence, but they confide in him or her for different reasons.

When reflecting on personal influences in my life, no one has had a greater impact than my mother.  Tracy Gordon has been the biggest influence in my life from as long as I can remember. She is and always continues to be a positive role model as a mother. My mother has always taught me to be who I am and not to pretend to be someone else. She has influenced my life by teaching me the lessons and showing me the right and wrong behaviors. She has taught me the values and principles of life and also the importance of family.

My mother has shown me unconditional love, even when I have made very bad decisions that she has not agreed with. I admire my mother’s love for her family. She is always trying to find new ways and ideas to improve her family’s life because she wants the best for us. This has inspired me to try my hardest to get the best out of life. She has inspired me to go to go college, so that I can be successful and provide for my family. I remember when I was little girl and my mother would always tell me to always strive for the best and never settle for anything less than my worth. As a little girl I didn't understand the phrase but as I matured I understood it more. I have used this phrase to get me where I am today and I will continue to use it in the near future.

Growing up as a little girl without my father active in my life made me respect and honor my mother. The things a father usually teaches his daughter and do with his little girl, my mother did for me. My mother was a single parent of six but she never missed any of my school plays, spelling bees, award banquets, or graduation. Looking out into the audience and seeing my mother face or hearing her scream my name brought joy to my heart. Seeing her made me feel so confident in myself, and I wanted to do my best to impress my mother.

I have no idea where I would be without my mother. She is the queen in my life and even when her soul leaves her body I know she would still guide me. My mother has influenced me in so many ways. I am thankful for all the things my mother has taught me and did for me. I am blessed to have such a wonderful person to raise me and mold me into the intelligent young woman I am today.