My lifelong love and unsung heroine — I call her Mommy

Today, I want to honour the most beautiful soul I know: my mum. She’s not perfect, but in so many ways, she is. She has been my enduring champion and prayer warrior, giving so much of herself to our family, her work, and our community. Even now, in retirement, it’s never about her. It’s always about us.

She wakes up early to prep bunso's baon, makes sure no tummy goes hungry, and keeps the house running -- all with the same dedication she’s shown her whole life. And yet, I know there are moments when she feels unseen, when she wishes for a little more support, when she wonders if anyone truly notices all that she does.

Mommy, I see you.

I see the way you pour your heart into everything -- into every meal you cook, every act of service, every quiet moment when you put others before yourself. I see the sacrifices you’ve made, the strength you carry, and the way you give so freely, even when it feels like no one gives back in the way you deserve.

You’ve always been everything -- a devoted daughter, a selfless sister, a faithful wife, a loving mother, and an exceptional nurse. Your career wasn’t just a job; it was your calling. Rising to the rank of head nurse at Dibba Hospital -- something no Filipina in town had done before you -- was no small feat, but you did it with the same grace and determination that define you.

Beyond our family, you’ve been a pillar in the community. At church, through the Filipino association in Fujairah, and as chapter head in Couples for Christ, you’ve quietly yet powerfully touched so many lives. Your unwavering belief in the worth of people -- that everyone, even the meanest and most hardened hearts, deserves to be treated with compassion and respect -- is a lesson I carry with me every day.

Your generosity is so profound that most people simply cannot match it. But that has never stopped you, and you never bear a grudge -- even when your kindness isn’t always returned. You simply express your disappointment, forgive without a word, and carry on being the beautiful soul that you are.

Everything you do comes from the sincerest and purest intentions. You love without limits, you give without hesitation, and you serve with a selflessness that makes the world a better place. I know that people have taken advantage of your goodness, and that hurts me because I know how deeply it hurts you. But through it all, you remain unwavering in your noble virtues.

I wish I had the means to let you put your feet up and rest, to have others care for you the way you have cared for us. But I know that serving others gives you purpose; it’s who you are. And while I can’t change everything, I can make sure you know this:

You are cherished. You are appreciated. You are loved beyond words.

Everything good in me comes from you. You’ve raised me to be strong, to be kind, to be smart, and to love fiercely. I’ve inherited your selfless nature, but I’ve also learned to protect my heart -- something I know you struggle with, yet it never changed who you are at your core.

Mommy, I cannot imagine life without you. The thought alone brings tears to my eyes because you are the biggest part of me—the best part of me. I thank God every single day for you.

Today, on your special day, I hope you feel spoiled, loved, and seen. Because you deserve that and so much more.

May you have many more birthdays to come, Mommy. I love you with all my heart. Always.