By Burnett Munthali
Mother’s Day is a time for celebration, for honoring the women who have given us life, love, and the lessons that shape who we become. But for those of us who have lost our mothers, this day can be bittersweet. Instead of the joy of giving flowers or sharing a meal, we are left with memories, silent reflections, and the deep ache of her absence. Yet, today, I choose not to dwell on the sadness of her departure but to celebrate the legacy my late mom left behind.
My mother was more than a nurturer; she was a guiding star, a symbol of strength and unconditional love. She had a heart that welcomed everyone and hands that never stopped working. From the earliest days of my childhood, she poured her energy into making sure I was not only taken care of physically but emotionally and mentally as well. I carry her words with me every day, her voice forever etched in my mind, reminding me of the values she held dear—honesty, humility, kindness, and perseverance.
Her sacrifices were silent, but their impact was loud. She worked long hours, often behind the scenes, making sure we had what we needed to thrive. It was only later in life that I truly understood the weight of her quiet labor, how she often went without so we wouldn’t have to. I owe much of who I am today to her strength and resilience. She was a pillar, standing tall even when the storms of life tried to shake her.
One of the many things I cherish about my mom was her wisdom. She knew how to face life’s challenges head-on, but she also knew how to find joy in the small things—a warm meal, a beautiful sunset, or a simple conversation. She taught me that life is not always about grand achievements, but about finding peace and gratitude in everyday moments. This is perhaps the greatest gift she left me: the ability to see beauty, even in loss.
On this Mother’s Day, as I reflect on her life, I realize that while she may no longer be here physically, her spirit lives on in the lessons she imparted, the love she gave, and the person I have become. Her love was a seed planted deep within my heart, and even though she is gone, it continues to grow, guiding me through every twist and turn of life.
To my mother, I say thank you. Thank you for your unwavering support, your endless patience, and your boundless love. Thank you for the sacrifices you made, many of which I didn’t understand until I became an adult. Thank you for the lessons you taught me, both big and small, and for shaping me into the person I am today.
I know that no matter how many years pass, you will always be with me, watching over me, guiding me, and reminding me to live with the same strength and grace you embodied every day of your life. This Mother’s Day, I honor you not with flowers or cards, but with the deep gratitude and love that remains etched in my soul.
Though I miss you deeply, I find comfort in the legacy you left behind, a legacy that lives on in me, in every act of kindness, every moment of resilience, and every expression of love I give to others. You were, and always will be, my greatest teacher, my hero, and my guiding light.
Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I love you, always and forever.
