This was written in honor of my Surrogate Jewish Mother
You were there for me when I was small
You helped me struggle through it all
You were my mentor and my neighbor
You gave me guidance and hope with fervor
You took me under your wing and said that I could fly
You told me there was neither height nor limit on how high
You were there with a listening ear when I needed to cry
You gave me courage to never say I can’t, but always try
You were right next-door where I could run with my fears
You were kind and loving while wiping away my tears
You instilled in me a sense of self-pride
Even though my family had secrets to hide
You were the type of mother I needed so badly
I love you, pray for you, and praise you gladly
Now that I am grown you are a treasured friend
Someone on whom I can still trust and depend
By Estelle P. Shrum
(Leviticus 19:16-18), (Isaiah 66:13), (Romans 13:10)