When Aieza was little, she was delayed in one important milestone, walking. Our pediatrician was concerned and recommended X-rays and extensive testing to ensure her bones were fine. Thankfully, everything came back normal, but they advised us to help her walk and keep a close eye on her progress.
As her mother, I knew deep down that the real reason wasn’t about her physical ability, but more about how I was unintentionally holding her back.
We lived in a big extended family, full of responsibilities and other children. To keep her safe and occupied while I managed household chores, I would often keep her in her high chair, giving her snacks to keep her content. It was easier that way, especially since every time I let her down to play, she would inevitably get hurt by the roughness of older kids. I thought I was protecting her, but in reality, I was unknowingly limiting her ability to explore and grow.
One day, I decided to change things. I dedicated an entire weekend to giving her my full attention and helping her walk. In just two days, she took her first steps. My heart was overwhelmed with relief and happiness because I knew right then, there was never anything wrong with her; She just needed me to give her the freedom to be a baby to explore, stumble, and learn on her own.
Fast forward to today, and I felt that same overwhelming pride as I watched Aieza walk confidently across the stage to receive her high school diploma. As she was honored as valedictorian, celebrated for her scholarships and accolades, I couldn’t help but feel like my heart might burst with pride.
But what unfolded after the ceremony was something I never could have imagined.
I watched as her classmates, friends, younger students, teachers, and coaches, approached her with tears in their eyes, wrapping her in hugs and sharing words of love and admiration.
Then, something even more unexpected happened, people I didn’t even know, strangers who had witnessed the scene, came up to me with words that made my heart swell: “You raised a kind, good-hearted daughter.” “You raised a great daughter.”
In that moment, I realized that above all the academic achievements and awards, the most important success was raising a daughter who touches lives with her kindness.
That’s what truly matters to me. Beyond all the accomplishments, I am most proud of the person she has become compassionate, resilient, and full of grace.
Aieza, you’ve made us proud in every way, and I couldn’t be more grateful to be your mom. Congratulations, my girl. You did it!
متعلقہ
یہ متن کھا گیا کہانی کو، منظوم پرسہ، طاہر احمد بھٹی
دیتے ہیں پھر دہائی کہ سایا کرے کوئی، از، مونا فاروق، امریکہ
An Aftermath, by Barrister Yasser Latif Hamdani