Six years ago, after a courageous 4½-year battle with sarcoma cancer, my mom, Tonia M. Taylor, passed away on March 24, 2018. Three months later, on June 25, our daughter, Cesily Collette Taylor, was born. That year was full of highs and lows—grief, hope, and so much joy. My mom would have been so proud of Cesily. She would have seen her granddaughter’s bright spirit, her creativity, and her determination, and she would have celebrated every little moment. Even though she isn’t here to see it, I feel her influence in everything we do as parents. I know she’s Cesily’s guardian angel, watching over her and guiding her way. My mom was a beautiful strong black woman and a nurse, and not just any nurse. She was the best. She cared deeply for her patients and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. She researched, wrote policies for the VA Medical Center, and never stopped learning. Through her example, she instilled in me the values of dedication, love for community, and the importance of family. Her example shapes how my wife and I raise Cesily. From the moment we saw her, we knew she would have a wonderful life because nothing would stop us from making that happen. Cesily’s joy, creativity, and resilience remind me so much of my mom. Even though they never met, I see my mom in the way Cesily lights up a room, claps and sings like nothing else matters, and faces the world with curiosity and grace. She is so strong—stronger than she even knows, stronger than anyone I know. She faces adversity with a smile and tackles every challenge with determination. One day, Cesily will grow up to be a strong Black woman, just like my mom. That makes me so proud. That makes me so happy. Mom, I miss you every day, but I know you’re smiling down on Cesily. You would be so proud of her. Cesily will know you more and more through the way we love her.