Ah, that quirky holiday we all rush around preparing for, while simultaneously dismissing it as commercial nonsense. “Valentine’s Day? Who cares?” you might say. “It’s just a ploy by greeting card companies.” Yet, deep down, you can’t help but wish for a little token of affection. You glance enviously at your friends’ bouquets and boxes of chocolates, then you start to nudge your partner for a romantic gesture, which inevitably leads to a little spat, followed by a fiery make-up session where promises to be kinder are made.
And just like that, it’s Valentine’s Day once more. But this year, I find myself facing it differently; my partner will be far away. Coincidentally, so will my mom’s. Both of our loved ones are off exploring different parts of the world.
For many, this might feel like an emotional avalanche, but for me, it’s different. My father, who worked in the film industry, was frequently away on location throughout my childhood. It didn’t bother me because I had my mother, one of the most resilient and capable women I know.
This Valentine’s Day, I’ll be celebrating with her. We’re planning on indulging in some Chinese food, catching a movie, and having heart-to-heart talks about life. I may not be able to spoil her with jewelry like a husband would, but I truly wish I could. The most important part is that we’ll share our thoughts on genuine, profound love.
The kind of love that blooms when you witness a feisty little curly-haired child grow. You carry that child inside you until the moment comes when she arrives, in a whirlwind of chaos and excitement. You see her struggle through school, getting into trouble time and again, and you attend every parent-teacher meeting, ready to defend her. It’s the kind of love that encourages you to say, “Yes, sing your heart out, because that’s what you need. I’ll always love you.”
It’s also the love that comes from watching a woman rise at the crack of dawn to prepare homemade lunches for her three kids, a luxury she didn’t have growing up. She’s endured hardships, and as a child, you can only grasp fragments of her struggles. She leaves for work, and you go to school, excitedly talking about mommy’s job. It’s the love that creates both intense arguments (because you’re so alike) and immense comfort (for the same reason). It’s the love that lets you be your true self and still feel secure in your home and heart.
Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love in all its forms. The love I have today, and will continue to have, stems from witnessing my parents’ unconditional affection for each other and for me. Every time we observe this day, we honor that first, all-encompassing love—through thick and thin, in sickness and health.
I love you, Mom. I’m here to stay. Well, except for our Chinese dinner on Saturday night and many more to come.
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Summary:
This heartfelt letter reflects on the essence of love as celebrated on Valentine’s Day, emphasizing the bond between a mother and child. It highlights the sacrifices and unconditional love that define family relationships, showcasing how these experiences shape our understanding of love. This year, the author will celebrate with their mother, cherishing the deep connection formed through years of shared experiences.