The tapestry of life

Dr Fahim Chand | Monday May 22, 2023 06:00

Through the sonic haze I suddenly heard, “Our next speaker is Fahim Chand.” My legs seemed to carry me to the front of the classroom on their own. I recognised every single face in the crowd. We had laughed and grown together but at this moment they felt like strangers. I brushed away my nervousness and began to speak. As my now captive audience were deeply engaged in my speech about tsunamis, I felt my muscles loosen their grip on my body and psyche. I realised I was actually enjoying myself. I completed my commentary to thunderous applause. As it turned out, my speech was named the best in the class that year. Not bad for a little African boy from Lobatse, born with a stutter.

I had one person to thank, my mother. She was the one who tirelessly moulded a terrified young boy into somebody who conquered his fears and charged confidently into the world. In the tapestry of life, mothers weave an irreplaceable thread that shapes the very essence of our existence. From the moment of conception, they embark on a remarkable journey, nurturing life within their womb. They cradle dreams, hopes, and aspirations, imparting love, wisdom, and strength to their children. Motherhood, with its boundless joys and challenges, is a sacred calling that deserves to be honoured and celebrated. Hence, every year, we come together on Mother’s Day to pay homage to these extraordinary beings who touch our lives in countless ways.

Mother’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. It is a day to express gratitude for the selflessness, sacrifice, and unconditional love that mothers embody. The significance of this day transcends mere sentimentality; it is a collective recognition of the monumental role that mothers play in shaping individuals, families, and society at large.

Mothers possess a unique ability to nurture and empower. Their love is a wellspring that flows ceaselessly, imbuing their children with strength, resilience, and compassion. From the tender moments of cradling an infant in their arms to the unwavering support they offer during times of hardship, mothers provide solace and guidance, fostering a sense of security and belonging that lasts a lifetime. Through their words, actions, and unwavering presence, they instill values, ignite passions, and equip their children with the tools to navigate the world with confidence.

A mother’s influence extends far beyond the confines of the home. She is an anchor in the stormy sea of life, offering encouragement, wisdom, and perspective to her children as they venture into the world. A mother’s love nurtures dreams and fuels aspirations, propelling her children to reach for the stars. With unwavering belief in their potential, she inspires them to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and persevere in the face of adversity. By fostering an environment of acceptance and love, mothers cultivate a sense of empathy, kindness, and respect that ripples through generations, leaving an indelible mark on society.

Moreover, mothers are the unsung heroines who possess an innate ability to balance multiple roles and responsibilities. They are the masters of multitasking, effortlessly juggling the demands of motherhood, career, and personal growth. From dawn till dusk, they tirelessly tend to the needs of their children, ensuring their physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being. They are the ones who prepare meals, kiss scraped knees, attend parent-teacher meetings, and offer unwavering support during moments of triumph and despair.

Their selflessness knows no bounds, and their determination to provide the best for their children is unwavering.

Mother’s Day not only celebrates the extraordinary individuals who fulfill the role of a mother, but also acknowledges the diverse forms that motherhood can take. It recognises the power of maternal love, regardless of biological ties, and honours all those who step into the nurturing role of a mother figure. Stepmothers, adoptive mothers, foster mothers, and grandmothers all contribute to the beautiful tapestry of motherhood, leaving an indelible impression on the lives they touch.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of life, it is easy to take a mother’s love for granted. We may become so engrossed in our daily pursuits that we forget to express our appreciation for the sacrifices she has made. Mother’s Day provides us with an opportunity to pause, reflect, and shower our mothers with the love and appreciation they deserve. It is a day to reminisce about cherished memories, to listen to their stories, and to create new moments of connection.

And, while I realize Mother’s Day was five days ago, I urge you to look inside and cherish the priceless memories. Now, pick up the phone and call her to tell her you love and appreciate her. Go ahead, it’s the number you’ve memorised.