Selfless

I remember it was around October in 2010 when my Mom first left for the States. She was granted an Immigrant Visa from being petitioned by her brother in 1987. Yes, that's about how fast the system works. I was really excited for her. It's probably her first time to ride a plane and travel that far in years. She's in her mid-sixties and deserves this kind of vacation after being a housewife to a husband and five children for almost three decades. I grew up watching and eventually learning household chores from her.

I think I was already in my twenties and working when I asked my Mom why she chose to be a housewife. She had a career in teaching and a UP graduate, as a matter of fact. She replied she couldn't focus on working away from her child. Eight years after she quit her job as an English teacher in Don Bosco, I was born---the third daughter, like her, who could not bear to be away from her child to work. My Mom was the first person I called when I learned that I was granted permission to work from home. She was delighted more than I was.

Last Friday, my Mom left again for the States and this time, we were a little bit sadder. We were reminded again of my Dad, who was still alive the first time she left. My Dad passed away while Mom was abroad and grieving then was a little hard for all of us. We decided not to let her come home during the funeral as it might just drain her terribly. When she came back months after, all we did for a good long while was to cherish pleasant memories of my Dad. She says she prefers being reminded of when he was alive and not of his sufferings.

Being a plain housewife didn't prevent me from seeing my Mom as a woman of strength and wisdom. I am happy that she's found happiness and enriching experiences in travelling. I am glad that she's making her life more meaningful not only to us, her kids and grandkids, her siblings, but most importantly, for herself.