This woman worked as hard as any man I knew growing up:

Without complaint, no excuses, and no days off. Selflessly, all to give us the best of everything- a better chance at life, and opportunities she never had. We never went without and received everything we asked for and more.

This woman is my mother.

In my youth, I saw you as harsh and uncompromising. I didn’t understand your rationale. The strictness on late night tv, waking up early, eating breakfast at an appropriate time, refusing nightly pizza and ice cream. I wanted to stay out all night, but there came the curfews. You warned me about certain people I called my friends when you knew their true intention.

I remember fondly on how you would pack me my favourite dishes to savour every time I left for the boarding school. This brought me comfort and closeness I didn’t know I needed. I remember the several failed attempts in teaching me bike rides, pushing me to get certain grades, to never quit.

I never understood. But I understand now.

As a kid, you just don’t get it. I thought mom was making my life hard on purpose. You don’t see your parents as real people.

Every day when I call her the first thing in the morning she always asks, “What’s for food today, Yachna?” At first, I thought it was odd. Most of our conversations revolved around food and recipes that she wants me to try.

Now, I understand. Only a mother’s heart deeply cares if her child is eating well. These are the little things that a mother’s love is made of.

Oh… I get all of it now. I am a grown woman now.

Now, I see it clearly, she wanted me to have the best chance at life. She was keeping me safe. She was teaching me to take care of my body. Looking back, she has been right about it all.

“Yachna, learn to be patient with people. That’s the biggest gift you can give yourself.” One of the many things mom tells me daily.

When she took on the role of both the parents after dad passed away in order that myself and siblings wouldn’t miss out on anything only reinforced my belief in her unconditional love.

Her unwavering strength and resilience inspire me to be the best version of myself.

Thank you, mom, for bringing me up in the best possible way, for being my life coach, my number one fan in anything I do.

I will never be able to repay you for all the things you have done. But, I promise to stay with you throughout all the possible ways, just like you have for me.

Mom, you are the prime example of what a strong and independent woman is, and just I don’t get it how you do it. Maybe one day, I will understand if I have kids of my own.

To all the wonderful mamas in the world, thank you. For all the lessons. For all the love, for you. Thank you!

xx

Yachna