i love my mother. for raising me to be honest (the exaggerations don't count, shell). even when it is hard. even when you stand to gain nothing from it. i love my sisters. that they too, have embraced this philosophy of life. there have been myers knock-down-drag-outs, the likes of which, most of you cannot imagine. we have benefited from every honest argument. every hurt has been soothed. every tear has eventually dried. and we are left stronger and more sure of our love for one another. so, thank you, mother. for such a wonderful gift.