On March 23, 2001, I was brought into this world and introduced to my mother, Ivey Brandon. She has taken care of me for the past 18 years and I couldn’t thank her enough for it. She’s had it rough taking care of me without the help of my father. When I was younger, he would come and go frequently and it would hurt me because I couldn’t understand why, but no matter what my mother always made sure I knew that I was not the cause of his absence. As I’ve grown, I’ve realized that his frequent disappearing acts hurt her more than they hurt me because she was hurting from the betrayal of someone she was in love with, while also hurting for her son because she couldn’t give me the household she wished she could.
Times are hard sometimes due to misunderstandings, but she’s always there when I need her. She has put so much on the line for me, and sometimes I feel like I don’t do enough to pay her back. She is working hard to give me an opportunity that she never had, at the cost of not being able to purchase a house like she has always wanted to. She continually supports me in whatever endeavor I pursue. I am forever grateful for having her in my life, and I am glad that she is the parent that decided to stay. Happy Mother’s Day everyday mom.
I am deeply touched by Carlton's words and his sincerity. My hope is that he and his mother Ivy will continue to be blessed.