I am sharing another "Person I Admire" speech from my Exploratory class. Many speeches were about parents, but this one resonated with many students in the class, as evidenced by the tears shed and the huge applause that was given. I am so lucky to work with students who are willing to share so much of themselves - again, I admire and respect all of you!

Dear -----, Thank you for being so honest, open, and brave - I appreciate that you shared with us. ~Ms. J

The Person I Admire, by Anonymous

The person I admire the most is my mother because she is strong, caring, and humorous.

My mom is strong because she used to get mistreated by my father, and she got away from him for me and my brother's sake. Even though I see my father, and I love him very much, my mom has been the one person who has been there for me every time I needed someone. My mom fought for our custody, and what did my dad do? He sat on the sidelines and got half custody. Like I said, I love my father, but it's just my mom who I admire.

My mom is the most caring person I've ever met. When she was worried about where we were growing up, my mom brought us to Mountain View to have a better life. She works her fingers to the bone just to pay the rent, put food on the table, and a roof over our heads. And she does this all alone. She is caring and selfless.

My mom is humorous because even when she has a hard day at work she still finds time to be funny and cheerful - well, not all the time, but in reality who really is? My mom has the best sense of humor. I don't say it just because she's my mom, but because she has always taught us to laugh at ourselves, even when times are hard.

My mom taught me to be a better person because she is hardworking and passionate about everything. She is, and will always be, the person I admire the most.