DEAR ABBY: In response to "Mom in Denver," whose mother did a poor job of raising her and who's afraid of making the same mistakes:
I am 22 years old and consider my mom to be one of my best friends. She, too, was raised poorly. She was abused physically and verbally. She moved out when she was 18, and at one point worked three jobs to support herself.
When she had children, she knew she didn't want to make the same mistakes her parents had made, and for her, that was enough. She is the best mom in the world.
She's supportive and understanding. I know that she is there for me no matter what. I go to her for advice, friendship and love -- and I'm there for her, too, if she needs anything. I'd be lost without her.
Please assure "Mom in Denver" that by learning from her parents' mistakes and by being there for her children, she'll be one of those great mothers, too. -- JULIE SAMMONS, MILWAUKEE
DEAR JULIE: Bless you for assuring "Mom in Denver" by your own experience that it's possible to break the destructive cycle of abuse. You are fortunate to have had a very special mother, and I'm certain she is proud to have a daughter who holds her in such high esteem.