I am

I am many things, but none of them are determined by anyone but myself.

I am a fighter.  Not in the sense of black eyes and bruises (though it could come to that if pushed), but I will fight for what I believe is right.  I will fight for those who can't defend themselves.  And, I will fight you over the middle piece of cake.

I am a teacher.  I have taught each of my children to chew with their mouths closed and to think with their minds open.  Now if I could just get them to fold their clothes properly.

More often, I am a student.  Learning to be a stronger person and a better parent is a class I will never complete.

I am a bitch.  This requires no further explanation than just spending a few minutes with me...particularly when dealing with morons and bad drivers.

I am a mother.  To my three daughters, but also to anyone else who may need a little guidance or a helping hand.  Just don't expect me to change any more diapers.

I am a protector.  This is probably my strongest identity.  I am fiercely protective of everyone I care about.  Fiercely.

I am a listener.  Talking is not really my strong suit, but I hear everything you say.  Keep that in mind the next time you open your mouth about me.

I am a lover.  I love deeply and passionately.  Once I love, it is very difficult to turn it off.  Once I turn it off, I throw away the knob and you will never feel the warmth of my heart again.

I am a mother.  I say this again because it is who I most often have to be.

I am a supporter.  I love nothing more than to hold someone up when they need a little extra strength.  My shoulders are open to anyone who needs to stand upon them.

I am a maid.  Not my favorite identity, but one I have to exercise more often than I would like to.

I am a cook.  Somewhere between a short-order cook and a chef de cuisine is where I lay my apron.

I am a chauffeur.  Soccer practice, school (times three), dance class, choir practice, basketball practice, orthodontist appointments, blah blah blah.

I am a cheerleader.  No bullhorns or pom poms needed.

I am a challenger.  Don't test me without expecting a fight.  I will challenge everything that isn't set in stone... and I will even question that if there is a chisel handy.

I am a friend.  While I don't have many, the ones I do have can count on me to hide a body, lighten a mood, or drink them under the table.

I am a woman.  Soft skin and hard stares.  Strong will and weak heart.  Quiet anger and loud devotion. 

And, I am a mother.  Morning, noon & night.

I determine who and what I am.  I am not defined by anyone or anything.  Love me or leave me alone, but stop trying to change me into who you want me to be.  I fit no other molds and no one can fit into mine.  And aren't we all really grateful for that?!