I have given birth only once, and it was not my idea at the time. I’d decided in my late teens that I would never have children, thinking I was too selfish. Yet, the moment my son was born, I fell hopelessly in love with him. I didn’t let him out of my sight, literally, for a year. I never knew I could love someone that much. Until then, I thought I was flawed, unable to feel the deep love that others experienced.

That child changed my life in such a profound way, it’s hard to imagine who I would be today if I had not become a mother. I also ended up raising two wonderful stepsons. The three of them helped me become sober, responsible, diligent, patient, loving, generous, and a hell of a lot more fun. Thank you, my sons.