Beyond Words, Beneath Actions

    As a child, I used to have a simplistic understanding of love, believing it to be conveyed solely through saccharine words and grandiose physical gestures. I never once doubted my mother's love for us, but I often wondered why she didn't engage in the conventional acts of maternal affection portrayed in movies and shows. However, as I've grown older, I've realized that her love for us is genuine, albeit expressed in ways I hadn't initially grasped.

    During my early years, my mother embarked on a work journey to Hong Kong, leaving us in the care of our grandmother in their hometown. She returned with us in Vigan after approximately 2-3 years, and from that point on, she took on the role of a homemaker, diligently tending to our needs on school days. Her routine was like clockwork: rise early, prepare breakfast, neatly press our clothes, see us off to school, pack our lunches, and pick us up from school. I regarded these acts as ordinary, but a particular event altered my perspective on her daily efforts.

     There was a day when my mother and sister had to travel out of town, leaving my brother and me at home. We were entrusted with cooking our meals and handling all the household chores. Though the tasks were simple and required basic domestic skills, it dawned on me that my mother had been carrying out these responsibilities tirelessly, day in and day out, for years. The realization gradually settled within me, and my appreciation for my mother grew immensely from that moment forward.

    Apart from her domestic duties, her keen attention to detail truly deepened my admiration for her. I observed it in the meals she prepared, the clothes she chose for us, and even the items she purchased. One instance that stood out to me was the color of the toothbrush she would buy for me. Whenever it was time for a new toothbrush, I would invariably find a supply of purple ones, knowing they were meant for me (as I am the only one among my siblings who favors violet). It may appear to be a minor gesture, but it overwhelms me to realize that I have exclusively used a purple toothbrush all these years.

    Her affection is strongly expressed through the food she cooks. Whenever one of us conveys a desire for a particular dish, she wastes no time fulfilling that craving when the opportunity arises. She takes note of our individual preferences and aversions, which is a small gesture but means the world to me. Moreover, she possesses a passion for baking. Whenever there is an examination or contest, or when the necessary ingredients are available, she promptly brings out her weighing scale, an assortment of bowls, and numerous jars filled with dry ingredients, among other things.

    Lastly, she wholeheartedly supports me in all my endeavors. She encourages me to join clubs and organizations, allows me to participate in parades and camping trips, and motivates me to run for student council or environmental clubs. She has taught me the value of taking chances and the importance of never carrying the weight of regret for not trying something.

    While my mother seldom expresses her affection through words, she consistently demonstrates it through her actions. I used to take her efforts for granted, failing to fully comprehend the level of dedication she invests beneath every action. To Mama, I wish you a Happy Mother's Day. I am immensely grateful for everything you have done for us. I may not always say it, but know you are cherished, loved, and appreciated beyond words.