I have tears in my eyes. Your story resonated with me so deeply. You see my mother was also talented. But in our household Alcohol, deviance, and tobacco took precedence. I'll never forget the day in a speeder induced euphoria my mother pulled down her dusty pages. She saw failure. My goodness I saw magic. My mother has been the greatest lesson of my life thus far. She is still alive but her dreams died long go. Although she lives she is not my mother really. She is a shell. Focused on her immediate gratification. We both lost our mothers but in different ways. My heart shakes for you. Although my mom has never really been a mom.. I pity my own heart and am wary of its strength the day I must bury her. Because I'll be burying everything I'd ever dreamed and hoped to have from her. I propose alike. I empower other women as much as I possibly can. Especially my daughter. Every little girl is a princess and more than deserving of being a champion. I can tell you love your mother very dearly. And I say love because who leaves this Earth I believe lives on in our hearts. Death is a cruel teacher. And I meant that in all love. You see I've lost a son. And knowing he lives in my heart.. it gives me the power the courage to follow my dreams... for him. Thank you so much for this outpouring of emotion you have given me. What a beautiful thing it is to be moved by words. Keep writing! It's how we change the world!! Your mother is proud. Always know that.