I can't agree with her more. Especially seeing my mother, who was laid off after working for a Baltimore-area financial firm for over 23 years. She has been in post-grad school, attempting a late in life career change. I know she is stressed out. Her technology courses are not easy. She is going on interviews with no experience in the field whatsoever.

But she perseveres. With a frustrated, but positive outlook. I have always looked up to my mother, not always agreeing with her, but admiring her success in life. I almost feel guilty about my new position here at my company. But she still tells me how proud she is of me.

But I am more proud of her. She has made a lifetime of examples for me. And I am living proof of that.