"My story will likely be echoed by many who choose to reply and share their own rendition, but this is my story. It's true what they say about a 'Mothers Love'. I was fortunate growing up in that I had both parents in my household, I know many people who sadly never experienced that or if they did, it may have been for only a handful of years due to one circumstance or another. My father was a damned good man, God rest his soul, but my mother and I have always had a special bond and still do to this day. For as long as I can remember she's be my biggest fan, most staunch supporter, best friend and confidant. Her strength has carried me through my darkest days, her guidance has shown me the proper path to take and her kind nature has given me the blueprint on how I should strive to live my life. I'm grown and have a family of my own and thankfully my two sons are practically as close with their Nana as I am. I take great pride in knowing that I have her approval and have put her life-lessons into practice. I strive to be a good father and husband and to treat others with kindness and respect because of how I was raised. Your saying "Happiness is a choice" truly resonates with me, because throughout my life I've been taught to always put my best foot forward and all things will fall into place. One cannot live by that creed if you're not willing to allow happiness into your life. In life, there are so many negative things and negative people trying to impact us. If you're truly happy in knowing who you are and what defines your character, negative influences will never take hold and control you. Instead, you're able to overcome and avoid those pitfalls because of your own internal fortitude, confidence and self-worth. My mother has always inspired me to be the best person I can be, and even though I'm grown, have degrees, etc. and have practically traveled the world seeing things she can only imagine, I continue to learn from and rely on her for strength and guidance. I wouldn't have it any other way! Thank you for allowing me to tell my story!" - Trenton from Kalamazoo, MI
