<strong>Name:</strong> Zi Hao ((Michael) Zhou
<strong>Age:</strong> 14
<strong>Grade:</strong> 8
<strong>School:</strong> Saipan International School
<strong>Mom’s Name:</strong> Xiu Qin (Kelly) Huang
My Mom. The word “mom” conjures up images of comfort, safety, and unconditional love. This is certainly true for those fortunate enough to have a mother figure who embodies those qualities, and my own mother is no exception. As I reflect on Mother’s Day and the impact my mom has had on my life, I am struck by how many of her characteristics are often overlooked in popular media’s portrayal of motherhood. My mom has always been a hard worker. Growing up, I remember her always being busy – whether it was her job, taking care of the house, or volunteering in the community. Despite this, she never once complained or made us feel like we were a burden. Instead, she always made time for us, whether it was helping us with homework, playing games, or just having a conversation. Her tireless dedication to both her family and work is something I admire greatly. Another quality my mom possesses in spades is empathy. She has an uncanny ability to sense when someone is struggling, even if they aren’t saying anything, and she always knows just what to say or do to make them feel better. This extends not just to her own family, but to anyone who crosses her path. I’ve seen her comfort strangers on a plane, befriend neighbors going through a tough time, and listen to coworkers who just need to vent. Her kind heart has and has always been a constant inspiration to me. Of course, being a mom isn’t always easy and nobody is perfect, and my own mother has certainly had her share of struggles. One thing I’ve always appreciated about her, though, is her honesty. She doesn’t try to pretend like everything is always sunshine and rainbows – instead, she acknowledges the difficult moments and works through them with grace and resilience. Whether it’s navigating a difficult job situation, or just managing the stresses of everyday life. Even though sometimes she may be strict, easy to anger, a bit rough, and overactive, I still love her. Perhaps the most important quality my mom possesses is her unconditional love. No matter what mistakes I’ve made, challenges I’ve faced, or how distant I’ve been, my mother has always been there for me. She’s supported me through my highs and my lows, always offering to lend a hand. Her love is the rock on which I’ve built my life, and it makes me feel safe, no matter where I am in the world.
My mom is so much more than a one-dimensional caricature. She’s a hardworking, empathetic, honest, and loving person who has shaped me in countless ways. I am incredibly fortunate to have her in my life, and I know that others are fortunate as well. On this Mother’s Day, I want to celebrate her and all the other moms out there who embody the best qualities of humanity. Thank you, mom, for everything.
