Dear Gisa,

This mother’s day will be unlike any other and sometimes that’s okay. Though my mother is ‘back’ in my life, I still feel as if you’re my actual mom. Jean Jackson is my mother on paper but you’re so much more to me. My best friend, savior, mother-when-I-need-you-to-be, sister, idol and mentor. You may not be my mother but you’re pretty damn close. 

Writing letters has always been hard for me because I always have too much to say and lack the appropriate or best words to use. Did you know that the average American English lexicon has upwards of one million words in it? Also there are about seven thousand languages spoken by humans throughout history—yet I can’t express my deepest and most sincerest gratitude.

From the moment Mya was born to Deon’s first words to the newest baby’s announcement, these kids have had such a profound impact on my life. I’d go mad if I were a lonely child. They’re my siblings, best friends and mortal enemies. I’d either be arrested and/or admitted into a mental hospital. Your kids are the reason I eat and try in life. You’re the reason I’m alive. You were the one who cared the most. You’ve done so much for me. You’ve encouraged my passions, celebrated my accomplishments, validated my emotions and listened to my ‘totally normal’ rants and stories.

You’re the strongest person I know. You’ve been shot, given birth to like 50 big-headed, big-backed babies, suffered abuse, worked tirelessly and yet, you still make time for everyone in the family. You’re complex and multifaceted. A survivor and crybaby. You’re not my mom but you’re the best one I’ve seen. 

Happy Mother’s Day, Big Sister!

From your favorite and only little sister~