Once, my mom used to tell me, "You'll get it when you're a mom yourself." I'd just laugh and say, "I'll be way cooler than you." I was quite a handful in my teenage years. But when I left home to start my own life, I realized how much I relied on my mom.

I always admired my dad for his hard work, thinking he was the most important in our family. But being away made me see that Mom was the real backbone of our household.

After seven years on my own, I still felt Mom's influence in everything I did, from cooking to managing money. Even when I got sick, I couldn't help but think of her taking care of me.

Then you came along, Sia. From the moment I found out about you, I felt a love I'd never known before. Holding you for the first time changed everything for me.

Now, three months later, you've turned my world upside down in the best possible way. Every day with you is a blessing. Your little hands, your smiles - they make me fall in love with you even more.

When you cry and reach out for me, it reminds me of my own bond with Mom. I realize now how much she did for me, especially when I was growing up. I regret not appreciating her enough back then.

But I've learned from her strength. I want to raise you to be strong too, Sia. And when you grow up and think I don't understand, just remember this: I'll always be here for you, just like Mom was for me.

With all my love,

Mom