Image courtesy of Laura Jhane Ojimba. Art by Bea Lu.
As we approach Mother’s Day 2024, Vogue Philippines celebrates this meaningful day with personal anecdotes from our collaborators about their experiences with motherhood.
Here, Filipino-Nigerian model and new mother Laura Ojimba shares how her mother’s parenting style influences her journey in raising her own child.
When I was a child, I often found myself puzzled by my mother’s actions. Her methods and ways seemed inexplicable to me, leaving me in a state of confusion. However, she would always reassure me with the words, “One day you will understand why I do what I do.” Little did I know that those words would resonate deeply with me in my journey of parenthood.
Now, as a mother myself, I have come to realize the profound wisdom in my mother’s words. Parenthood has unfolded before me as a series of revelations, each moment bringing me closer to understanding the essence of maternal love and sacrifice.
Through the lens of my own experiences, I have come to appreciate the complexities of parenting and the inherent imperfections that come with it. Now, I understand that there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Parents navigate the tumultuous waters of parenthood based on the lessons and examples set forth by their own parents. My mother’s statement about understanding her actions takes on a new significance as I grapple with the challenges of raising my own child.
When people inquire about my experience of parenting, I often describe it as a symbiotic relationship—a delicate balance between nurturing my child and being nurtured by her. As a first-time parent, I find myself learning as much from my child as I teach her. The journey of parenthood is a continuous exchange of love, lessons, and growth.
I am profoundly grateful for the exemplary parental skills demonstrated by my own parents. They imparted upon me the values of compassion and forgiveness, which serve as my guiding principles in raising my child. Their unwavering love and support have instilled in me the confidence to navigate the complexities of parenthood with grace and understanding. Despite her imperfections, I deeply admire my mother for her unwavering dedication to ensuring that my siblings and I felt loved and secure. Her sacrifices and tireless efforts to create a nurturing environment for us have left an indelible mark on my heart.
As I embark on this journey of parenthood, I am mindful of the legacy I wish to leave for my child. I strive to emulate the love, compassion, and resilience demonstrated by my parents, knowing that these qualities will lay the foundation for a happy and fulfilling life for my child. The lessons learned from my mother have shaped my understanding of parenthood in profound ways. Through her example, I have come to appreciate the inherent challenges and joys that come with raising a child. As I navigate the complexities of parenthood, I am guided by the love and wisdom passed down to me
