‘You showed me that the best acts of love are often the quietest’
To my Lola Mommy Naty,
Thankful as I am, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude and emotions as we celebrate Grandparents’ Day, reflecting on the countless ways you’ve shaped my life.
Being an only child of an OFW, I have been under your care since I was 6 months old. You have been so much more than just a grandmother to me; you’ve been my mother, too, my anchor, my mentor, and the heart of our family.
I can still vividly recall the quiet moments we shared when I was a child, me sitting on your lap as you told me stories of your youth and my mama’s childhood. Those stories were not just stories—they were lessons on life, courage, perseverance, the joys and pains of life and the importance of staying true to oneself.
You taught me my first ABC, how to read and write, and to see the world with open eyes and an open heart, to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow, and to always lead with kindness. I carry them with me every day. As I grow and face the world, I am constantly reminded of your words, your actions, and the incredible person you are.
I cherish the memories of us in the kitchen, where you patiently taught me and guided me through the rituals of preparing meals. It was in those simple, everyday tasks that I learned the true meaning of love and patience. You showed me that the best acts of love are often the quietest—found in a well-cooked meal, or the warmth of a hug after I hurt myself while playing to stop me from crying. These moments, seemingly small, were the foundation of my understanding of what it means to love and be loved.
You’ve also taught me resilience—how to stand tall in the face of adversity and how to find strength in vulnerability. Your life has been a testament to enduring love and unwavering faith. Ikaw ang unang nagdala sa akin sa loob ng simbahan, you taught me how to pray and encouraged me to serve the Lord by being an altar server.
Mommy Lola, you have been my daily guiding star, from kindergarten, to grade school, to my high school and seminary days. ’Yung ginigising mo ako every day kasi may pasok ako, to paghahanda ng almusal at baon ko, kasama na pamamalantsa ng damit ko. Those things you did for me were priceless, and sana masuklian kita.
Thank you, Mommy Lola, for your endless love, sacrifices, sleepless nights and for the countless ways you’ve nurtured and shaped my spirit. I am who I am today because of you, and I will forever hold you close in my heart.
With all my love, agyamanak unay (thank you very much), Mommy. I love you.
EJ
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Emmanuel Jaime “EJ” Salgado Sibayan, 20, is a third-year student at the University of Santo Tomas, majoring in applied physics. He grew up with his grandmother Naty Salgado in their hometown in Candon, Ilocos Sur, while his mother Tess worked in Abu Dhabi.
