My Mother’s Resilience
We’re proud to announce the winner of this month’s story contest…Genilyn from Brampton, Ontario, Canada!
Genilyn's story stood out among the submissions, showcasing not only literary talent, but a deep and genuine connection to a shared human experience. We were touched by the authenticity of her words and the powerful emotions conveyed throughout her writing. Genilyn, your courage in sharing such a personal journey reflects the spirit of our community. We look forward to more of your contributions in the future, as your words have the power to inspire and foster empathy among our readers.
Congratulations, Genilyn, on your remarkable achievement. Your story has left a lasting mark on our blog, and we can't wait to see where your literary journey takes you next! We hope the readers enjoy your submission as much as we did.
My life started in the beautiful, busy streets of Manila, Philippines. Although I never wanted to leave Philippines, my parents knew we had to move for a better life and more opportunities. I wonder if they never thought that, would my life be different today? I did not have a say in the move, not that I didn’t trust my parents, I was just afraid. Afraid of moving to a new country, with no friends or community that I had back home. Nevertheless, we proceeded with our journey. After a thirty-seven hour journey from the tropical city of Manila, we landed in the cold, frigid city of Toronto, Canada. Adding an hour drive during a winter storm, I took my first step into our new home in Brampton, Ontario. Little did I know, this would mark the beginning of a story filled with hardship, determination, and unwavering love.
My Mother, Your Maid
Brampton welcomed us with open arms, but it wasn't long before the challenges began. My mother, a resilient soul that I look up to to this day, became a maid to provide for our family as my dad was having a hard time securing a job. She faced difficulties, often being emotionally and verbally abused by employers who failed to see the person behind the profession. She chose to struggle in silence, but it resonated through the walls of our home. Growing up, I watched my mother navigate a world that failed to acknowledge her humanity and dignity, shaded by her profession. The emotional toll on her became evident, but she carried herself with a quiet strength, something I have an indescribable amount of respect for. Her sacrifices were the reason our daily lives were happy, and I grew to love and respect her more with each passing day. But, just as I thought life couldn’t get worse for her, it did.
A Broken Family
Our life took another tumultuous turn when my father left the family when I was just fourteen. The emotional turmoil that came with it was unbelievable. It was during challenging times like this that I witnessed the power of my mother's resilience. Despite the pain, she stood as a pillar of strength by holdin us together even though she was hurting so deeply. My mother's love was like an anchor on a ship being moved by raging waters. Her sacrifices and support built my own determination to rise above the challenges that life threw our way, and I had more troubles coming my way.
Why Don’t They Like Me?
I thought school was meant to be a place of learning and growth, but for me, it became another place of trauma. My mother's profession became known throughout the school, and while that may not seem like a big deal, it led to kids bullying me and a difficulty in building friendships. It was only painful because a few classmates discovered that my mother worked as a maid for one of the bully's family. The insults were sometimes quiet, but other times, they took over my life on social media. The weight of this judgment became an additional burden to bear. Some part of me felt anger for my mother’s career choice, but I came to my senses. Everything she did, she did for my future. How could I feel anything but love for her?Her resilience became my shield, and the love I had for her overshadowed the hurtful words of those who failed to see beyond stereotypes.
The Pursuit of a Dream
As I graduated high school, I came to terms with the realization that society defined individuals by their careers and financial standing. It was an uncomfortable truth but it fueled my determination to fight for a different path for myself. Fueling my aspirations with the fire of resilience inherited from my mother, I worked tirelessly to excel in every aspect of my life. The academic world became my rescue. It was a space where potential wasn't defined by societal norms. I set my sights on a big goal, pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering. Each hardship I overcame, each success I celebrated, carrying with me my mother's sacrifices. Every achievement was a step toward repaying her for the strength and love she put in my life.
My Biomedical Dream
The world of biomedical engineering was enormous, and with unwavering determination, I wanted to contribute to the betterment of society. Science is a canvas where I paint my dreams, and each discovery brings me closer to my goals. In the laboratory, I find a place where societal judgments held no worth. My passion for science became a t to the strength I had inherited from my mother. The pursuit of knowledge wasn't just my personal goal; it is a tribute to the woman who faced adversity with grace and resilience.
The Future of Giving Back
As I stand looking forward to a promising future, I am motivated by personal ambitions and profound desire to give back to the woman who shaped my narrative. Every achievement, every milestone, carries with it the gratitude and love I hold for my mother. In her sacrifices, I found the inspiration to rewrite our story. The pursuit of success isn't just about individual glory but a shared journey of resilience, love, and the belief that circumstances do not define your life forever. As I study biomedical engineering, I carry with me the pains of my past and the dreams of a future where no one is judged by their profession or background. My journey will be guided by empathy, fueled by love, and dedicated to rewriting the stereotypes that society has about people like me.
So, What Now?
I’d like my story about resilience, love, and the pursuit of dreams against societal judgments to be a form of motivation and hope for those who are struggling like I was just a few years ago. As I go through the ups and downs of my life, the lessons learned are still guiding me. My mother's sacrifices, her resilience, and the love that holds our small family together push me forward. My purist of a degree in biomedical engineering is not just a personal achievement; it's a tribute to the woman who faced hardships with grace and courage. I hope to inspire others to challenge societal norms, embrace empathy, and recognize their strengths. My journey from being bullied in school to having a bright future is a testament to the power of resilience and an enduring bond between a mother and her child. If it wasn’t for that love and resilience, I wouldn’t be able to reach my goals today.
I’d like to dedicate this writing to my mother, Judy. Words can never describe how grateful I am for everything you’ve done for our family. I love you so much.