Jul 6 2023
Unveiling the Silent Strength: An Immigrant Mother’s Journey of Resilience and Love
The journey of my immigrant mother in Canada was filled with challenges, yet she kept her struggles to herself. However, she confided in a few close friends about her lung cancer diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of not burdening others. To protect my grandmother's fragile heart, we decided to conceal the truth about her passing. Unlike my mother, I tend to share my problems openly, but she cautioned me against oversharing, reminding me that not everyone wants to hear everything. Despite her seriousness, she was also a fun-loving person who enjoyed Chinese cuisine, jokes, and horror movies. Our shared compassion for animals and the less fortunate reflected our best qualities. She was fiercely independent and protective, especially when it came to my transgender identity, ensuring I felt loved and accepted. Her unwavering support sustained me during my struggles with depression and gender identity. Although her relationship with my father was unhappy, the connection between us brought solace to her. As I transitioned into adulthood, I took on more responsibilities, including driving, which my mother had always handled. In her last year, she shared her wisdom and driving experiences, guiding me with her critiques and ensuring my safety on the road.