Mother’s day

I’ve since come across the song with that title by Krysten Cummings, part of which goes: “All I am is someone's mother; All I am is someone's wife; All of which seems unimportant; All of it is just my life”.

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My mother is small in physique, and humble by nature. As a child, I found it easy to take her for granted. I didn’t fully appreciate the depth of my mother’s sacrifices and the magnitude of her mental strength.

My father recently passed away after over 56 years of their marriage together, leaving my mother to navigate personal grief and adjustment to life on her own.

In the face of this immense loss, my mother has not only borne her own heartache with grace but been a pillar of support to those around her: to my father’s friends who‘ve expressed such deep sorrow they’ve been in tears, to some who wish to talk only about their own stories of bereavement, to those who are ill needing help. I’ve heard my mother’s words of comfort to others and seen her selfless empathy and practical acts of service even during this time.

As a Muslim, I’ve learnt the status of mothers is unparalleled. Muslims believe it is narrated: "A man came to Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him and said, 'O God’s messenger! Who is most entitled to my best companionship?' ProphetMuhammad said, 'Your mother.' The man said, 'Who is next?' The Prophet said,'Your mother.' The man said again, 'Who is next?' The Prophet said, 'Your mother.' The man asked for the fourth time, 'Who is next?' The Prophet said,'Your father.'"

For me, this saying highlights the special position of mothers and the importance of treating our mums with utmost respect and care.

So for those of us celebrating Mother's Day, let’s appreciate more often the countless sacrifices our mothers make and the compassion they shower upon us.

And to my own mother and to all the mothers out there, mayGod bless you with His mercy, love, and grace. Happy Mother's Day.