Looking back, I had a pretty happy childhood despite the fact that my family had just enough to make ends meet. I was well taken cared of. I was a little naughty and playful as a kid. Back in the day, my favorite hobby was flying a kite. I would always go out to fly a kite during the noon time even though I was told not to. Back then, the most awaited time of the day was our meal times. I was curious to know if my favorite foods would be served on the table. The first thing I did when I got home from school was to go to the kitchen. A huge smile spread across my face whenever my most favorite food was served. I even jumped and ran around the house happily. 

By now, you may be wondering who I am referring to. Who was there doing all those things for me? You’re probably right. I was talking about the most caring, understanding, and the strongest woman ever–my mom. When I think of my mom, I think of the unconditional love, sacrifices, morals, and emotional support my mom passed down to my whole family, which had a huge positive impact on my upbringing.

As you may have known, Asian people are family-oriented. Family usually comes first. Nothing matters more than being together. We would be willing to just eat what little food we might have on the table as long as we sit together at meal times. My mom usually reminds me that, “If you get lost or go through a hard time in life, please always consider coming back home to be with our family.” This forever stuck with me. I sometimes cried thinking about it. Even when she is in her toughest time in life, she would still think and worry about her son. Her love is indescribable and irreplaceable. I strongly believe every mom would do the same thing even if we’re all grown-up. 

Despite the hardship my mom went through, she would always put a smile on her face. The smile of hope, the smile of belief. She normally doesn’t talk much like my dad, yet her actions and caring mean the whole world to the family. She would do anything, literally anything just to ensure that everyone is happy and safe. Just seeing the smiles of my mom, I become 10 years younger, honestly. Her smiles are the medicines to cure emotional struggles I sometimes experience. My mom was always there for me through ups and downs. She would be the first person to cheer me up. She would always make sure that I feel loved and supported. 

Until today, I have never once heard my mom complain about all the sacrifices she has made for our family. All she could think of was what else she could do to better our family situation. She is always on the bright side–the solution to every problem. She is always calm and patient. Her positive mindset has left a huge impact on me personally. Above all, her gentle gestures and certain morals in raising me have had a really positive effect on my overall behaviors and attitudes.

I guess it would take me forever to talk about my mom and all her qualities as a woman, a wife and a mother. However, I want to take this great opportunity to thank my mom. I want to let you know that I feel fortunate to have you in my life. Thank you for assisting me in developing into a self-sufficient and successful adult with decent manners. Thank you again, mom, for everything. 

Happy Mother’s Day to all the greatest and most amazing moms around the world! May you be blessed with health, happiness, harmony, abundance, and longevity. 

By Mr. Kimsrun Sao ESL Head Teacher, Chak Angre Campus