MY grandfather always cried “Nanay ko po!” whenever he suffered from some kind of physical pain. His mother was long dead, but he never failed to say “Nanay ko” when he needed comfort.
Whether they are still living or not, our mothers will always be the best symbol and source of security and protection here on earth. We feel safe with them and we know that even if they falter, they only want and strive to give what is best for us.
A former colleague once mentioned that she still misses her mother even if she has died a long time ago. Whether we are in pain or in jubilation, one of the first persons to enter our minds is our own mother. Lucky are those whose mothers are still alive and can still respond when they share their thoughts and feelings. Are you among these lucky individuals? How can you make your mother feel special this Mother’s Day and even on ordinary days?
We may have disagreements at times, but one thing is sure – we will never outgrow our need for a mother – our most caring, loyal and generous ally. “A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts” (Washington Irving).
A salute to all the overworked and underpaid house managers who never have a day off and who play several roles without complaints: cook, tutor, adviser, events planner, nurse, referee, prayer warrior (solo parent or maybe even the sole breadwinner), etc. Happy Mother’s Day! To my staunchest supporter, my mother Estela, thank you for the love!
Marilyn Arayata: inspirational author, columnist, speaker, and former DLSU-D faculty, your partner in preventing bullying, depression, and suicide. E-mail [email protected]. Like the Hope Boosters Facebook Page for nuggets of hope and inspiration.
Always read TEMPO for articles that inform, inspire, and equip! (Marilyn C. Arayata)