The Greatest Gift

I celebrated my birthday yesterday with not much fanfare, I just spent it with my family. For me, birthdays are like new years. It gives me a chance to reflect on the past year, what I have accomplished and what has yet to be done. And I have realized that I have a lot to be thankful for. I am thankful for my family and friends and loved ones who have been there for me to support me.

It is not unusual for me to complain about things-- my job, the weather,almost anything. I was absorbed on the negative that I failed to see the positive side of things. I failed to see the love my family gives me. A few days before my birthday, I found an envelope on my dresser table. It was a letter from my mom. The envelope also contained a novena and a scapular. My tears fell as i read the letter. I immediately went to my mom's room and hugged her. Curiously enough, I haven't hugged her for a long time. I realized I missed my mom's hugs and kisses. At 24, I thought that I don't need my parents anymore. I have a well-paying job which pays for my schooling and other expenses, I have enough money saved in the bank as well. I thought I was mature enough to decide on my own. My parents, especially my mom, were merely just supporters. But the letter made me realize something very important. I have realized that I wouldn't have made it this far if not for my parents. I found out that my mom has been praying that novena for me for a long time now, to give me the strength and the wisdom especially that I will take the bar exams next year. Law school is not for the faint of heart. I have always wondered how I managed to pass all my subjects even with very limited time to study. Now I know that my mom has been praying for me all along. That for me is the greatest gift. No material thing could even surpass that gift of love that my family has given me. Indeed, I am lucky to have them.