MOM

 Toni Gonzaga: “A lot of families exist today because the mom chose to forgive. Kahit gaano ka kapagod hindi ka pwedeng mapundi dahil ‘pag napundi ang nanay delikado ang pamilya. Kaya dapat laging shining bright lang nanay. Pero ang galing nga ng nanay eh, kahit broken on the inside umiilaw pa rin sa tahanan. Tsaka dito natin makikita na may rason ang lahat ng pagsubok sa buhay gaano man kasakit. Kung may pinagdadaanan tayong pagsubok ngayon sa buhay, hindi natin agad makikita kung ano yung reason. Parang while going through the storm wag mong i-analyze kasi sa kakaisip at kakaisip mo lalo kang malulugmok at made-depress. Basta ang goal is malampasan ko to.”

A mother’s role in the family is incredibly powerful. Many families thrive because of a mother’s resilience. But I also think it’s unfair to expect moms to always stay strong, no matter what. Moms are not superhuman—they’re people with limits, too.

If a mom “burns out,” it’s not just on her; it’s a sign the family should step up and support her. Moms shouldn’t feel like they have to carry the entire family alone. It’s a partnership, and everyone in the family has a role to play in keeping the light shining.

As a family, sometimes we just have to focus on surviving the storm. It’s not always about understanding the "why" in the moment; it’s about getting through it. But let’s also make sure moms know it’s okay to ask for help when they need it. Families are strongest when everyone works together, not when all the pressure is placed on one person.