I asked my fourth period class to stand up and stretch. We were down to the last twenty minutes of the lesson. We have miraculously managed to concentrate for the last hour on discussing chapter six of the novel we have been reading. Not a minor feat considering it was the last lesson of the day, and a warm Friday afternoon too.
I asked their thoughts to turn towards the coming holiday this weekend. If their mother was in the the country and they would see her this Sunday, they could sit down. Six remained standing. If their mother was in another part of the country or elsewhere in the world, but they would still get to call her this Sunday, they could sit down too. Only one remained standing. We applaud him for having to be extra courageous to live without his mother close by.
I asked the students to present the sticker-studded cards they have crafted during class to their mothers on Sunday. Each card contained a simple greeting and three questions they would ask their mother. Perhaps some of these conversations this weekend would be a little contrived, stilted, awkward…
I asked her anyway. And I discovered… that my mum only had seven music lessons before she taught me how to play the piano (on an accordion). She doesn’t even play the piano but she is pleased that I have persevered. This is her favourite memory of me. She told me she sees the independent, daring and adventurous side of her in me. Her love language is acts of service. She sees a need and attends to it. Without hesitation, just rolls up her sleeves to get the work completed. What a great compliment for my mother to observe this in her daughter too. This is how I am most like her.
I asked her too if there was anything I could do for her right now. But being one of the most self-less woman I know, she insists that my well-being and achievements are enough source of pride and happiness for her.
I will ask my students if they spoke to their mum as well on the weekend. This was one time they were not required to write in English. They need to speak heart-to-heart with her, whatever language that may be. I know I will endeavour to hear more of Mum’s heart in days and weeks to come.
[Awww! This is one of my favourite pictures because I clearly remember asking to wear Mum's gear - note the flowers and shoes - then, attempting my best impression of her graduation photo. Eighties and the Philippines! Most mercurial mix! Hats off to Anna Jarvis;and many thanks to Jeni and Jed for the photo of Mum from their houseboat adventure this year. To my friends and family who love mightily with a mother's heart: Happy Mother's Day!]
