Today is Mother’s Day. A Chinese saying reminds us “on festive occasions more than ever one thinks of one's dear ones”. This is so true. Though it has been 13 years since my Mom has gone to be with the Lord, I still think of her on many occasions. For those of you who are blessed to have your mothers around, please take every opportunity to express your love to them; send them a card, call them up, wrap them a gift, write them a letter, or take them out for a dinner. I was glad that a couple of years before my Mom passed away, I wrote this letter to convey my gratitude and appreciation for all she has done for me.
Dear Mom: Today is Mother’s Day. I want to let you know how much I appreciate you. You were born in China at a time when the Qing dynasty ended and a new republic was established. Though you grew up in an environment where women did not have equal opportunity as men, you, however, under the guidance and openness of your parents were permitted to attend school. You excelled in college and were later credentialed as a teacher. Mom, you became my very first teacher in life not only at home but in school as well. You taught me so many things; be polite to people, serve others first, be diligent, etc. One of your favorite expressions when the children did not want to get up in the morning, you will always say, “Wake up, the sun is already shining at your behind.” I find myself saying the same thing frequently later on too. When people admire my penmanship I cannot but give thanks to the many hours that you patiently and painstakingly hold my hand and guide me in my writing. You taught me to become a well-rounded person, not only excelling in academics but also in physical and social activities. But above all, you nurtured me to love God even at a very young age. You dedicated me to the Lord when I was an infant; you guided me in my spiritual walk with the Lord by taking me to church every week until I left home for Junior High. You taught me my first prayer: “Thank you God for giving us food. I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.” You also trained me to say my evening prayer: “This child will now go to sleep, God, please send your Holy Spirit. Kindly incline your ears, let me not be fearful in my sleep and dream. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.” Even now, sometimes I still say those prayers, and they bring back good memories and warmth. Your love for your children is unconditional. You are always concerned about their welfare. Even as old as I am now, you still worry that I do not have enough clothing on me, or I do not eat enough. When I work very hard, you would tell me to relax and slow down. You always encouraged me with the Chinese saying: “As long as the green forest is around, do not worry that you do not have woods to burn.” Mom, you are a great person, now that you are bedridden, I feel sad that you cannot get around doing the things that you like. I miss the time that we can just talk, sing and share. I long to see your sweet smiles again. Although you cannot say much now, I can still see the love in your eyes. I am confident that you continue to pray for your children. You have engraved each one of them in your heart. Mom, thank you for everything and I love you very much. May God comfort you now and always. Your loving son Comments are closed.
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