I am stronger because you've made me this way.
I've learned to laugh, to love.
Learned to endure hardships,
strive to achieve excellence.
I've learned to chase my dreams
rather than chasing rainbows and butterflies.

You gave me my wings,
but forced me to teach myself to fly
and I appreciate that more than anything.

Because you loved me,
I am able to succeed, to achieve.
Because you taught me,
I will teach forever.

Amanda Lukas

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/because-you-loved-me/