I can honestly say I never fully appreciated the sacrifices and tough love my mum showed us until I became a mother myself.
During my hormonal teenage years, I had a temper, and I often felt that my mum did not understand me – to me, she seemed constantly angry or disappointed.
Today, I catch myself sounding just like her, yet over time, I have watched her soften from the strict mother we once knew into a caring, loving – yet still firm – grandmother to my two young daughters.
Eighteen years ago, our lives changed forever when we lost my beloved father suddenly, just after his 50th birthday.
My mum became a single mother overnight. Whatever grief and burden she carried, she never showed it. Instead, with quiet strength and a practical spirit, she moved forward with grace, raising three children, including a young son under 12.
She defied judgement and stereotypes, showing us nothing but resilience, love and determination.
As a preschool teacher, she loved shaping young minds, balancing her professional life with the demands of being a full-time mother. Our meals were always home-cooked, and our house was consistently spotless. She had an incredible ability to create delicious dishes from whatever was in the fridge.
Even now, when we ask her to document her recipes, she simply laughs and says, “Easy only, just see and do,” relying on instinct rather than measurements. Looking back, we probably should have helped her more, if she had let us.
But she had a strict control over her kitchen and one wouldn’t dare to encroach into her territory when she was busy cooking for one of the gatherings that she had decided to host.
At 40, she inspired us all again by embracing yoga, fitness and travel. She explored the world, visiting places like Turkiye, Japan and South Korea, and truly began living life on her own terms.
She encouraged others to join her adventures and remains a constant source of support and a listening ear for those around her.
She never stops evolving. In fact, just last year, she even took up weight training. Sometimes, it feels like she is ageing in reverse, her zest for life as infectious as ever.
Despite everything she does, she is always there for her family. No matter the situation, you can rely on her for advice, comfort or simply a wonderful home-cooked meal.
She shares a close bond with her own mother, my remarkable grandmother, and continues to lead our family by example.
Her granddaughters are truly the apple of her eye. She balances discipline with open affection, and they adore her completely.
As for me, over the years she has become not just my mother, but my best friend and confidante.
She picks us up when we are down and redirects us immediately with sharpness and tact if we are going in the wrong direction.
Our relationship has deepened in ways I never imagined, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
She is, without a doubt, the rock of our family.
We love you so much, Mummy. Happy Mothers Day.
