Growing up, I’ve always known my mom as the rock of our family—always home, always taking care of my dad and us, her children. When my dad got sick, her world shrank even more. She never left the house unless absolutely necessary because Dad needed her, especially during his frequent attacks. She was his lifeline, and the rest of us depended on her, too.
(photo edited by CANVA)
But everything changed when we lost my dad last December. Since then, my mom’s been living alone in their home, and it’s been hard on her. She often breaks down crying because the silence in the house reminds her of his absence. To ease her loneliness, I’ve arranged for my son and daughter to stay with her. That way, she has companions, and the house doesn’t feel so empty.
Yesterday, we decided to take her on her first long trip since Dad passed—a weekend getaway and also an advance mother day celebration for her, we take her to Governor Generoso in Davao Oriental. The journey itself was no joke. One way involved a long, steep walk that could easily leave anyone winded, but my mom powered through like a champ. As she tackled the challenging walk, she joked, “This is so called Exercise, I was really able to do it, even though it was very long"Wow, did I make it? She asked..then laugh.
The effort was worth it, though, as we were greeted by stunning views and a peaceful ambiance. The sight of the lush greenery meeting the deep blue sea, coupled with the gentle rustle of the wind, was like something out of a postcard. For my mom, it was like discovering a whole new world. She couldn’t stop saying, “This is my first time here—how beautiful it is!”
Hearing her express so much joy and wonder filled me with gratitude. It’s not every day you get to see someone you love so deeply rediscovering life in such a vibrant way. The weekend vibes were incredible. We shared meals by the shore, laughed at silly moments, and simply soaked in the beauty of nature.
I told her, “Wherever I go, I’ll take you with me, Ma. This is just the beginning of many more adventures together. Let’s create memories that will last forever because every moment with you counts.”
Life has taught me that the best moments aren’t about grandeur or extravagance—they’re about simple, heartfelt connections. Watching my mom appreciate every view, push herself physically, and enjoy every second of the journey reminded me of how precious time is.
As we walked back at the end of the trip, even though we were tired, my mom said, “I'm tired at it was worth it, this is Best Mother's Day gift but sadly your Dad is already not here anymore but I know his happy, above”. And as her daughter, I’m more than ready to give her not just that but all. My children said to us Happy Mother's Day to the two greatest mom ever. We're very happy and fulfilled yesterday.
I would like say thank you to 