05/11/2026
Seeing everyone posting photos with their moms on this Mother's day, I'm finally compelled, after 23 years, to post my own.
She was the strongest woman I know. We moved to Canada, just her and me, when I was 9. Into the unknown, when we didn't know the language, the customs, or even directions. My parents wanted a better life for me.
Growing up, my dad worked hard to be the breadwinner and support, often not in the country. My mom took care of me along with working her full time job.
When we moved and I had no friends, she would play catch with me in the snow, even though she didn't know how to throw a baseball.
When I got bullied in school, she taught me resilience. And when to stand my ground.
She taught me how to be independent, and not to rely on anyone.
She taught me what responsibility and sacrifice meant.
Despite being busy everyday, she made sure I had great home cooking every night. Her love language was food. Which turned into my love language.
She took the bus to and from work. To save money.
23 years ago, she passed away due to a freak car accident.
Being the eldest son (and only son), it was my duty to push the button to turn on the cremater.
Hardest thing I've ever had to do.
Thoughout the last 23 years, I started to love cooking, to try to reinvent the flavors I had every night with her.
I became independent. I learned how to work hard. I learned how to be ethical. I learned when to stand my ground.
To this day, I'm still attempting to be half as good a person as she was to everyone.
In 3 years, I'll be her age when she passed.
Time flies. If you've read this far and have the opportunity to do so, give you mom a hug. Give her a kiss. Tell her you love her. But most importantly, tell her "thank you".
I wish I could.
Happy mothers day mom. Hope you have tons of friends to cook with in heaven.
Your son, always.
