Reconnecting with Mom: My Path to Reconciliation

When I was younger, my mom had very strict rules about curfew. 🙅🏻‍♀️ We had to be home at a specific time, 🕒 or she'd get angry and scold us. 🔥 It was a typical Asian parenting style – some yelling, attempts to instill respect by making us feel inferior, and even physical punishment. ⚠️

I experienced all of this firsthand, especially when playing basketball with my brother. 🏀 We'd get home late because we played with older teenagers from our neighborhood. ⛹🏽‍♂️ Sometimes, games would last 3 sets and take over 3-4 hours. 💯 By the time we got home, Mom would be waiting with a stick, ready to hit us. 🪄 It felt strange – we were already in high school, yet she treated us like children.
(´｡• ◡ •｡`)

Throughout our childhood, Mom resorted to physical discipline for our mistakes. 😭 It was painful, and the following day, things were awkward between us. It usually took around three days for things to get back to normal.
( • ᴖ • ｡ )

Growing up, resentment began to build between my mom and me. 🫣 We weren't close, and I stopped showing her the traditional Filipino respect gesture of "mano po." 😶 The sweetness a child naturally feels towards their mother just wasn't there for me because of my experiences. 😑

Many teenagers in similar situations might lash out. 😵‍💫 But for me, rebellion wasn't the answer. 🧐 Instead, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, 🤔 even if it led me down some paths I wouldn't recommend. 🤔

As I reflect on my life and how I became who I am today, I am reminded of the sacrifices my mom made, especially when I was sick. It's clear that she is one of the main people who helped raise me and shaped who I am. I wouldn't be here without her. In this spirit of appreciation, I want to acknowledge all her sacrifices – they are truly worth noting.

We don't know how much time we have with our loved ones. Not telling Nanay I love her would be a future regret. This simple act of telling my parents how much I love them will be heartwarming. They'll be happy to hear it.

Reflect on the immense effort your mom has put in for you. Imagine if she were gone tomorrow – how different would your life be? What would you regret not telling her? What things would change dramatically?

Most of the time, I try to say sweet, loving words to Mom in a cute-and-funny, sarcastic-and-joking tone. She interprets it as irritating, but honestly, I mean it. I just want her to hear how much I love her, whenever the mood strikes. Delivery is the key.

For me, staying positive is key. I approach my mom with a lighter attitude, it's so much easier to say what I want. It's like the pressure lifts, and we can actually have a real conversation. Letting go of small stuff that bugs me, learning to laugh at myself (we all mess up!), and just enjoying the moment instead of dwelling on the past or stressing about the future. The more I practice these things, the lighter I feel,It's all about keeping a positive and relaxed outlook, you know?

I don't know what your relationship with your mom might be right now, but I hope this inspires you to express gratitude and love to her. You don't need to do it every day, but when you feel a deeper reason behind your feelings, do it. You just need to realize how much your mom has shaped who you are. Hopefully, you and your mom will have a happy relationship as a family.

Now tell your mom, I love you!