The highest recognition of a female role model and mentor will never go to my mother because the things she was supposed to teach me were taught to me by another.

Another mother, yes but so much like the big sister I never had but always wanted. From simple conversations about how to be me to complex conversations about how to let go.

She helped me understand it all without being made to feel small. She helped me let go of the anger and resentment I held onto so dearly in hopes that you would eventually come around.

The jealousy speaks louder than my heartbeat in the midst of a severe anxiety attack when I feel as though my lungs are being crushed. This feeling of jealousy I know all too well because I remember it being taught by you.