Mother Dearest!

I looked to the dawn and I looked to the night, 

Seeking the world in its wonder and light.

I travelled through valleys, o'er mountains so high,

Beneath endless fields of a star-sprinkled sky.

The roads that I wandered, both narrow and wide, 

Revealed hidden marvels at every stride.

I gazed upon flowers adorned with the dew, 

And heavens painted in every shade and hue.

I met many faces, both distant and near, 

Each carrying stories I paused to hear.

Of different beliefs and of different names, 

Yet all of us bound by life's delicate flames.

The earthly and heavenly entered my sight, 

Competing to dazzle with beauty and might.

The wisdom of ages, the brilliance of minds, 

Lay scattered like treasures for seekers to find.

So I looked to the east and I looked to the west, 

Believing that there I would find what was best.

I searched every horizon that lay in my view, 

Yet none held a wonder more precious than you.

For when I turned inward, when all journeys ceased, 

The longing I carried was finally released.

There stood my beginning, steadfast and true, 

The source of my strength, dear Mother, in you.

My light in the darkness, my guide through the years, 

The comfort behind all my triumphs and tears.

Whatever I am, whatever I'll be, 

Your love is the root of it growing in me.

The courage I gather when burdens grow strong,

The faith that sustains me when pathways seem long,

The values I cherish, the dreams I pursue, 

Were nurtured and strengthened because of you.

You stood as my anchor through tempest and tide, 

With patience and grace forever at my side.

No words can encompass the debt that I owe, 

Nor fully express all you've helped me to grow.

So thank you for sacrifices silent and deep, 

For promises faithfully chosen to keep.

For lessons conveyed without needing a voice, 

And for placing my welfare before every choice.

Thank you for letting me wander and roam, 

While always preserving the warmth of a home.

Thank you for giving me freedom to see 

The breadth of this world and its vast mystery.

For after my travels, one truth shines above: 

The greatest of wonders is a mother's love.

And of all the blessings that life gave to me, 

Being your son is the greatest that'll be.