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Unconditional Love: To lean back so others can lean in


“I hope you find true meaning, contentment, and passion in your life. I hope you navigate the difficult times and come out with greater strength and resolve. I hope you find whatever balance you seek with your eyes wide open. And I hope that you - yes, you - have the ambition to lean in to your career and run the world. Because the world needs you to change it.” ~ Sheryl Sandberg, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead


That's a quote from Sheryl Sandberg but when I read it, I heard my Mom's voice. Those words of wisdom were something my Mom kept reminding me, my 5 brothers and her 17 grandchildren.



The past few months have been a series of celebration: college graduation, middle school recognition day, wedding and high school graduation. Pure joy which I wished my family in the Philippines were able to witness -- in person. Unfortunately, for the past 7 years, the closest they could celebrate with us was through the pictures I posted on my Facebook wall.

Mom turned 70 today and like every morning, the first thing I wish for is for my parents and brothers to be here with us not just on special occasions but every day -- to smile, share stories, and to be able to kiss their hand to say "Good Morning" and "Good Night".

My mom taught us how to put family first, to give more, to share and to love no matter what. She gave up everything for her family -- because she enjoys giving more than anything else. We may not have the luxuries in life but we hit the jackpot because our family has always been there for one another.

I miss you mom. I am who I am because of you.

You showed me the way
I followed the path;

You held my hand
I stood when I fell;

You pushed aside my weaknesses
I discovered far beyond my reach;

You nurtured my strengths
I aspired of BIG dreams;

AND NOW…

I am here to be me
Not what you want me to be;

I am here to pursue my own dreams
Not what you think I oath to be;

I am here to explore beyond the fence
Not where you feel I should be;

I am here to be me… with you by my side.


Happy Birthday.
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  1. StephanieJune 30, 2013 at 10:51 PM

    Popping by real quick before Google Reader goes away forever! Hope you are well and will try and add you to my list on Bloglovin b/c I don't want to lose touch. Feel free to stop by my blog and leave me your Bloglovin, feedly or just your blog link here!
    http://www.howtosurvivelifeinthesuburbs.com/2013/06/over-here-im-over-here.html
    xo

    ReplyDelete

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