What Woman In Your Life Inspires You The Most?

What Woman In Your Life Inspires You Most?
Two women � mother and daughter � sitting on a couch; the daughter has given her mother a gift
Two women � mother and daughter � sitting on a couch; the daughter has given her mother a gift

Last week we asked our community on Facebook and Twitter, "What woman in your life inspires you the most?" There were many responses, but the overarching message was clear: Your mothers are more than just an authority in your life; they are your best friends and mentors too.

You told us about the many sacrifices your mothers made and hardships they endured to guarantee you have a better life. From battling cancer to managing family finances, you believe your mothers have balanced it all -- and done so with spirit, determination and grace. Here's what our community had to say.

Tell us about your mom, or the most important woman in your life, in the comments below. Or, share with us on Facebook and @HuffPostWomen on Twitter.

Storified by Brittany Erin Binowski · Wed, Oct 24 2012 17:36:39

My grandmother! She raised 5 kids basically on her own while my grandfather traveled and worked long hours. She lost her parents, her only sibling then moved half a country away, she lost her husband early and she had to bury one of her sons. Despite all that, she swims a mile every morning, she volunteers weekly and she comes to all important events for her 12 grandchildren. Did I mention she'll be 80 next year? She continues to look at the bright side and is eager to learn more and she inspires me to do the same. I hope one day I can be half the woman she is.Colie Lum
My mom always inspires me most even though she has been gone for 30 years! Not only did she raise her 7 children but also help to raise 4 of my cousins! She was remarkable. Her home could probably not pass the white glove test very often; but all of the basics were done every week, one day was all laundry (wringer washer); and she baked 9 or more loaves of bread every week plus making everything from scratch. She made life fun, always smiling, always asking "what can I do to help?" Simply remarkable.Helen Rose Huber
My Mom (Deb Shaw) inspires me the most. She is an incredible woman that has been the rock of our family my entire life. She's not just my Mom, she's my best friend, and I don't know what I'd do with out her. She always managed to balance raising us kids with the house and a job while still making time for those important moments.Erin Shaw Murray
@HuffPostWomen my son's god mum inspires me. She is a foster mum and is helping kids change the direction of their life. #inspiringwomenbelinda parmar
My childhood best friends mom...she puts her children first n always gives the wisest advice...nvr selfish..vry giving.:)Rainbow Lara
my gma that died 5 yrs ago from breast cancer rip gmaDesirea Norris
My mother. She is such a wonderful example of how to always share your love with others and find passion in whatever you are doing. My grandma is also a really great role model. She is so strong and has showed me that no matter what happens you can get through it. She was diagnosed with mouth cancer a year ago, undergone two surgeries and 7 weeks of radiation. And she has not used any pain killers through all of this. She is so resilient. I love them both so much!

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