A LETTER TO MY MOTHER MARIA

My beautiful mother, I cannot find the words to convey the gratitude and love I have for you. You're my hero. The one who's been there day in and day out since the day I was born. The one who's been there for me, through my highs and lows, and for the past 24 years of my incarceration. I remember as a child, when you spoon fed me, taught me how to tie my shoes, protected me from myself, taught me how to read and write, and cried with me on first day of school. I remember when I was a young man, how you held two jobs to make sure my brothers, sisters, and I would have food on the table and clothes to wear; the first day of my arrest, when you vowed that you would never leave my side, and you haven't yet. When your husband left you, you didn't give up. When things got rough, you always found a way out. Your self-sacrifice and love sustained us and carried us through the storms of life. 

On this special day, I wish I was there to hold you and tell you, 'you are the greatest Mom ever'. I wish one day to take care of you like you took care of me growing up. I wish for one day to give you the unconditional love you gave me throughout my rebellious and drug induced days, during the times when I needed you most. I wish to give you what you have given me ... that is my individual life.

Thank you Maria. Thank you Mom. You're the greatest Mom ever! -- Your son Edwin Rubis --