My dear Ma'
When I reflect on my past as a difficult child, a troublesome teenager, and an ambitious young adult, you are the one person who has consistently endured my antics.
It is because of you that I have become who I am today.
The tough love you gave me, which I didn't understand then, shaped me into a better person. It made me more determined than ever. Your strict discipline often made me wish to run away, but today I appreciate the value of that strictness and the lessons of honor, dignity, and self-respect it instilled in me.
I have learned from your mistakes and I strive to be more understanding, patient, and forgiving towards others.
Your fiery nature and determination have driven and inspired all of us to achieve what we have. You fought and sacrificed to give us the best education, and without your efforts, we would be nowhere.
Most of your life was dedicated to securing our future. You took care of not only me and my siblings but also supported your own family in every possible way. Every neighbor, from the numerous places we lived, remembers you fondly for your help and kindness.
You taught me to share, ensuring every meal was divided among us all. You created delicious dishes from the meager ingredients available at home. Though times were tough, our home was always filled with laughter and singing. The only fairy tales I remember are the ones you told us. The designer clothes you painstakingly hand-stitched for every birthday and Christmas were outstanding, though I never appreciated them then.
Today, if I am a jack of all trades—a decent cook, seamstress, and homemaker—it is because of you. Whenever anyone praises me for being a wonderful hostess, especially when my mother-in-law compliments me, my pride knows no bounds because I know it was your upbringing that earned me her appreciation.
You never received gifts or went to movies or parties, but you always kept our family together, no matter how tough the situation. You were so selfless, always putting us before yourself.
I am grateful to you, Ma. I can never thank you enough.
