On a sunny weekend escapade to my favorite island, I had time to co-exist with my beautiful mom.

Exploring childhood, gender identity, and nurture in many of our nonchalant conversations. More than a mother, she is a friend.

I’ve always reflected on how the freedom she gave me, her light, her values, and her love allowed me to grow up free to be whoever I wanted to be.

I wore my brother’s clothes, I played sports, I came out at an early age. Home was never a place for judgment but for support and encouragement.

Thank you for being my biggest example and the most important person in my life. I’ve learned everything from you.