GREETINGS dear readers,
As I sit down to write this piece, I can’t help but feel the weight of the world upon my heart.
Last week, in our exploration of ‘The Sacred Mirror: Why Community is the Catalyst for Spiritual and Mental Resilience’, we delved into how social connections act as a soothing balm for our weary souls.
Today, on the eve of my 51st birthday, I find myself grappling with the profound loss of my beloved mother, who peacefully left this world yesterday morning, December 10, 2025, at the age of 84.
The article I had intended to share, about the importance of Digital Detox – unplugging from technology for spiritual clarity – seems trivial in comparison to the deeper musings that weigh heavily on my heart right now.
Thus today, allow me to focus on my mother and the myriads of ways her love permeated my existence – her nurturance transcending physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual senses.
From my earliest memories, my mother radiated love like the sun illuminating the dawn. Her embrace was a refuge, her laughter a soft melody that could quiet any storm.
The physicality of her love was tangible – those warm hugs, the soft stroke of her hand against my cheek, my head, the way she held me tight during thunderstorms.
Each touch felt like an unspoken promise: “You are safe; you are loved.”
As I grew up, her love evolved, entwined with life’s complexities. It became clear that her physical expressions of love were but a precursor to deeper connections.
She taught me that emotions are the threads that weave our lives together. Her strength was palpable during hard times.
She did not shy away from sorrow but embraced it, teaching me that vulnerability is not a weakness but a brave act of authenticity.
In reflecting on our relationship, I am reminded of the famous quote by Langston Hughes: “Mother’s arms are made of tenderness, and children sleep soundly in them.”
Within her embrace, I could find the sanctuary I sought – a space where I was endlessly celebrated and unconditionally accepted.
No matter where life’s tumultuous waves took me, I always returned to her harbor of love and wisdom.
But a mother’s love extends beyond the physical realm; it also nourishes the spirit.
In her presence, I felt a sacred connection to something greater: a divine essence.
She anchored me, always encouraging me to seek the light — even in the darkest of times.
I am reminded of a quote from the Bible that echoes her spirit: “Her children rise up and call her blessed” (Proverbs 31:28). Indeed, she was blessed and, in turn, blessed me in myriad ways.
In our conversations, I would often be astounded by her insights. She challenged me, encouraging the development of my intellect.
We would converse about life philosophy and the workings of the universe, imbuing my life with an insatiable curiosity.
Her wisdom was an elixir; she subtly nurtured my mind, sowing seeds of knowledge that blossomed throughout my life.
As I now reflect on her distinctive perspective, I realize that she taught me to question, to seek truth, and to cherish continuous learning – gifts that I carry gratefully and proudly.
Dear readers, Mother’s LOVE is a force that remains with us like a comforting embrace, a gentle breeze on a hot day, or a soft whisper in our ear.
As I write this, I am overwhelmed by the memories of her nurturing spirit, the depth of her wisdom, and the warmth of her laughter.
Each moment we shared was woven with her boundless affection – an affection that shaped the very foundation of my being.
It is said that “A mother’s love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible.”
This resonates deeply within me right now, as I grapple with the enormity of her absence.
I recall how worried she would become whenever I was ill. Her eyes would brim with concern as she insisted that I take care of myself.
Just last month, she sat beside me, tears streaming down her face, urging me to prioritise my health.
It’s etched in my memory – the image of her, vulnerable, yet unwavering in her love. In those moments, I recognised the undeniable connection that exists between a mother and child.
This connection is not merely one of biology but of soul. It is a spiritual bond that neither time nor death can sever.
Her love reached far beyond physical manifestations. I remember the countless evenings spent by her side, engaging in discussions that sparked my intellectual curiosity.
She would patiently guide my shaky hand across the pages of my first school exercises, teaching me to write my name, forming the letters slowly and deliberately.
Each stroke was accompanied by her gentle encouragement – her voice a melodic reminder that I was capable of so much more than I could imagine at that tender age.
Her support became the foundation upon which my educational journey blossomed, a journey she walked alongside me through every triumphs and trials.
Life is a kaleidoscope of experiences, and my mother was a vibrant thread woven into each one.
She was one of my biggest cheerleaders, celebrating birthday with enthusiasm that only she could muster.
I can still hear her familiar voice singing as she presented me with her hugs year after year, reminding me of the love that filled my life.
This year will be starkly different. As I approach my 51st birthday, I cannot help but feel her absence intensely, the void she has left resonating deep within my heart.
The celebrations will feel incomplete, yet I know she will be there in spirit, watching over me from afar.
As the sun sets on my 51st birthday eve, the bittersweet reflection of love and loss remains. Grief, though heavy, is the other side of the coin called love.
While navigating through this tide of grief, I find solace in remembering how she guided me through life’s complexities with grace and wisdom.
I reflect on the biblical wisdom that speaks of mothers. Proverbs 31:25-26 beautifully illustrates this: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
My mother embodied these verses, not just in her words, but in her actions, her heart, her inspiring life, and her eternal love.
As I conclude this tribute, I feel compelled to express my deepest gratitude to God for the gift of my mother.
Thank you, Lord, for gracing my life with such a beautiful, loving, and wise soul.
Her legacy will continue to inspire not just me but anyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Dear reader, may we all cherish the love of our mothers, embracing their lessons and honoring their spirits as we navigate life’s journey.
As I carry forward her wisdom and love, I feel a renewed purpose – a promise to live fully, to love deeply, and to cherish each moment, always.
Thank you very much for sharing this moment with me, and may we all hold our mothers close, celebrating their love and the beautiful journey of life.
DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at lawleepoh@gmail.com.
