Dear Tricia,

I’ve been thinking of how of I have come to my great place in the world. By great place I don’t mean a place of notoriety or material success, but success in becoming the person I wanted to become. When I think of all the people who have influenced me in my life, you are among the top.

You know, more than anyone else, the serious challenges I’ve faced in my life. You have always supported me and encouraged me to get through the most difficult things. I’ve learned that it is not the specific challenges that govern us, but how we respond to and overcome those challenges. For this I will always be grateful.

You are always kind, always seeking the good in others, always willing to sublimate your needs to those of others. As I move into this next chapter in my life, I feel so supported and loved and encouraged by you that I know I can do nothing but succeed.

You are a great sister, a great mother, and a great friend. Thank you for all the contributions you have made to me and my life.

With love,

Margaret