Mom.

She was there for every first day of school photo, that first math assignment that made you cry, and the first time you didn’t need a ride to school anymore.

Graduation is a bittersweet milestone for moms– realizing their children are stepping into independence. In a touching and emotional tribute, these graduating seniors tell their moms how much they mean to them through a heartfelt surprise that will bring tears to your eyes…

It’s so beautiful that these women give all the credit of raising their children, to God. You can hear more about these mom’s inspiring stories below:

Rachelle

On my drive to the hospital, I asked my husband, “What if he hates me?” I was afraid.

Then they handed him to me—fear dissipated and perfect love took over. That was nearly 18 years ago.

“Your son is displaying signs of autism.” The diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder) could be given a couple of years after the Doctor spoke the words that, once again, made me afraid… no, terrified.

Parenthood isn’t always easy, but it’s the journey that grows you and your child. Hopefully, it grows you in grace for one another because the alternative grows despair.

Jesus has been given the “wheel” in our life’s vehicle. We are His, ultimately, and so is our son! We are blessed in how he has chosen to grow and climb social barriers. His mind will always present challenges for him to overcome, but it’s the climb that makes him the man of integrity this momma knows him to be. I love him, and was undone by his words. Be blessed, parents. Your children see your heart’s desires to love them well, and those determined desires far outweigh our failures. Jesus in you does NOT fail. (1 Cor. 13:8)

Reyna

I was 18 when she came home from the hospital with me. I was young, I was scared, and literally sleeping on an air mattress. I grew up loving Jesus, but rebelled in my teen years. I did a lot of things my way until I realized I couldn’t anymore.

I looked up at the heavens one day, and said, “God if you’re real prove it.”

He did exactly that. My life has been forever changed, and only by His grace, am I the person and mom that I am today. This moment of watching my graduate who is now the same age I was when she was born has to be one of the best moments of my life. I am so incredibly proud of the young lady she has grown to be and am blown away by how she loves others. She is already working in education and hopes to open her own nail salon one day.

If you’re a mom reading this, know that you are a hero and be encouraged that you are never alone. If you’re thinking of your mom, send this to her and let her know how much she means to you. It’s never too late to give her a call.

Matthew West Just Wrote the Perfect Graduation Song