On my mother in-law's birthday

There's a difference between a mother and a female who happens to bear offspring. Any woman can become the latter while a select few can carry the title of the former. It is because of this fact that the said former is not necessarily a subset of the latter. And it is because of this fact that the woman we are gathered here to celebrate is a mother to many of us in this room, and a particularly special one to me. 

When you mention the fact word special there's nothing actually special about the word itself. What is special is the context, the feelings and emotions one attaches to it. And mama I am here to tell you why you are a special mother to me. 

In the time I have been fortunate to know you as a mother, you are one of two who have seen me for who I am, borne the brunt of all of my flaws, directly or otherwise, set aside all judgement and prejudice and shown me the true meaning of what it means to consciously choose to show love to someone. I often see men behind pulpits and podiums, behind screens and microphones quoting verses and telling people about a thing called love. In this world we live in and the life I have seen so far, it often comes across as mythical in some instances. But in your presence it is something I have seen and believed in. Your love has been tangible, inspirational and influential in many ways I never thought possible. It has been real. In a world where one's soul is tainted daily, where spirits are crushed and misfortunes shape the very outlook of man on life - it is love from a mother like you that stands as a bold and reassuring beacon of hope and comfort. It is love from a mother like you that keep children like myself going. It is the calm and soothing demeanor from a mother like you that, when need be, reminds us all that it is ok to not be ok at times, but that in the end all is well, only in the name of love. It is love from a mother like you that us mere mortals have found no spoken language to utilize to express our endless gratitude. 

Where I come from, people tell each other they love each other all the time. I sometimes feel awkward when I'm in homes and places where people don't. In some homes you only hear those words on birthdays or when someone gets a bonus. But because of who you are to me I could never let that go. On this evening mama, that we celebrate how young you continue to be, as well as who you are to all of us, if I have not said it enough - It's a simple message from me, "I love you, and may your graces continue to grow."

Thank you all