Understanding Love: A Journey of Realization

Have you ever questioned the depth of your love for your parents? For me, my realization came during my teenage years when I started to see them not just as my parents, but as individuals who valued my opinions and gave me the space to make my own decisions.

From a young age, my parents instilled in me a profound sense of love and respect. Being raised in a Muslim culture further deepened this value. The impact of love and respect in my upbringing became even more evident after marriage and the arrival of my own children. As I marveled at the depths of my love for my kids, I also realized how much it hurts to be separated from them for even a day.

Raising children can be a challenging but rewarding journey, and it taught me the importance of regular quality time with my own kids. In the morning, I make it a habit to meet with them, whether for a quick chat over breakfast or a more leisurely conversation as I sit with them and give them an oil massage. Additionally, on weekends, we often have fish parties to bond and create lasting memories.

A Tragic Loss and Reinforced Love

My mother passed away when I was only two years old, and shortly after, my father remarried. Our relationship with his new wife was initially rocky, as I felt she was aloof and uncaring. However, my father's passing at the age of 13 left me in her company.

My initial feelings towards my step-mom were negative, but a life-changing moment occurred when I returned from my tertiary education. After accidentally revealing my troubles to her, I noticed how distressed she was about the scars on my body. A relative later informed me that she had sought his consolation and cried, vowing to stay until I was safe and sound. This revelation shifted my perspective and I realized that my step-mom truly had a good heart. From that moment, my feelings for her changed.

Years later, I began to experience the symptoms of my mental health condition, bipolar disorder, and spoke candidly about it with my mom. She advised me to seek professional help and emphasized that it was okay to share my thoughts with others, even when they were uncomfortable. She acknowledged that there would be pain involved but assured me of her support. It was at that point that I truly understood the depth of my parents' love for me—not just as their daughter, but as a fully realized individual.

Conclusion

The realization of true parental love can be a long and arduous journey, but it is ultimately rewarding. My journey has taught me that the love I share with my parents is reciprocated and deepened over time through shared experiences and challenges. It's a testament to the enduring power of love and how it can transcend even the most difficult of circumstances.