by Bermie Dizon
Just as I often write devotionals on God’s goodness and His role in our lives, Mother’s Day prompts us to cherish and honor the women who gave us life.
Our mothers were instruments in God’s grand plan, carrying us in their wombs, and cradling us in their arms at birth. It’s a divine bond, a bond meant to withstand the trials of life.
In my life, three amazing mothers stand out. Rosie (my mother-in-law), Millet (my wife), and Verlantina (my mother) — each embody the essence of motherhood in their unique ways.
Rosie’s husband died when she was only in her early 30s and with five children to take care of. She was a single mom for decades. She was a resilient single mother who exemplified the epitome of strength amid adversity.
Despite facing the heartache of losing her husband at a tender age, she chose to be the cornerstone of her family’s foundation.
She built a sari-sari store, worked as a dressmaker, and all other opportunities that come her way just to earn the extra peso to support her family. With five children relying on her, she embraced the challenges of single parenthood with unwavering faith and determination.
Rosie’s unwavering trust in God’s provision and her sacrificial love are testaments to her extraordinary character and unyielding spirit.
To the people who know Rosie, she may be one person, but to her five children, she is the world. Such is the power of a mother’s love.
Millet, the mother of my four children is like the Proverbs 31 woman: “Strength and honor are her clothing; she is confident about the future. Her mouth is full of wisdom; kindly teaching is on her tongue. She is vigilant over the activities of her household; she doesn’t eat the food of laziness.”
I will not forget the times when our children were still babies and got sick, Millet would carry them in her embrace the whole night. Many times, she will ask me to lead our family in prayers.
It was she who initiated family bible studies as our children were growing. Yes, we have had challenging times.
But no storm is insurmountable with her because of her strong faith in God. While she radiates warmth and tenderness, infusing every corner of our home with love, she tempers it with the right kind of discipline.
Millet’s love, a reflection of God’s grace, is the spirit of hope that guided our family through life’s twists and turns.
Verlantina, my beloved mother, epitomizes the beauty of love amidst hardship. Despite facing the harsh realities of poverty, she showered us six children with boundless affection. Although my dad started as a mere street laborer, my mom gave us words that comforted us and gave us wisdom.
Her sacrifices were the true essence of maternal love. One thing I will never forget when I passed by my parent’s bedroom is seeing my mom kneeling by the bedside praying…. Daily!
I truly believe that I am what I am today because of her prayers. She may have passed away, yet her prayers have transcended time and space. She told us children that she prayed for our well-being years in the future.
Verlantina’s reliance on God’s grace in the face of adversity is a profound reminder of the power of faith and resilience. Behind every strong individual, there is a mother who believes in them first.
For those like me, whose mothers have passed, let’s make Mother’s Day a tribute to their legacy, keeping their memories close to our hearts. And for those fortunate enough to still have their mothers, let’s cherish them wholeheartedly.
About Author
+ There are no comments
Add yours