Moms on Mother's Day: It's the thought that counts
Moms share their Mother's Day wishes
SHAH ALAM - Mother's Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who raised us. But what do moms really want? We spoke to three moms with different perspectives to find out.
Ili Liyana Ihsan, 41, a freelance journalist, said that whether or not mothers like expensive gifts depends on the family culture.
"Personally, I don't mind whether the gifts are expensive or not, as long as they are personal and from my children," she told Sinar Daily.
The mother of two, whose children are still reaching pre-teens, would appreciate a handmade card from them from time to time, saying that it would be 'meaningful' to her.
Liyana admitted that she finds more joy in cost-saving gifts, considering her children are not yet earning.
"I'd prefer they save their money.
"The thought and effort behind the gift matter most to me," she added.
She stressed that most mothers, like herself, treasure any gift from their children, regardless of size or value.
For Liyana, the essence lies in the sentiment behind the gift, signifying that her children truly understand her.
"It's the thought that counts," she reflected, emphasising the importance of feeling loved and known.
Liyana also recalled how a coffee mug, reflecting her love for coffee, can speak volumes about a child's attentiveness to their mother's passions.
Meanwhile, Shaiifa Ema Ezanee, 41, Head of Treasury and Financial Operations, has a different take.
While she appreciates gifts, she insisted they should align with her children's means.
Yet, she equally values simpler gestures like a family meal, finding significance in gifts that evoke fond memories.
Shaiifa stressed the importance of expressing gratitude and joy.
"I always show how much gifts mean to me, even though sometimes I exaggerate it, but at the end of the day, everyone is happy, and that is all that matters.
"I don't know about others, but all I want for my children is to have a blessed life, a person who is liked and appreciated by others, and to have that is a gift of all time for a mother.
"It is cliche, but I really want them to live a happy and blessed life," Shaiifa added, describing what the best gift in life would be for her children.
In a related matter, Suhaini Jusoh, 42, a single mother from Kelantan striving to support her two sons through her work at a fashion boutique, echoed Liyana's sentiments on gifts: they need not be extravagant, especially considering her children's age.
Taking a more traditional stance, Suhaini emphasises the importance of filial piety.
"Children should reciprocate their parents' care by looking after them until their last days.
"For her, costly gifts pale in comparison to the enduring love and respect shown by her children," she said.
When it comes to preferences, Suhaini prioritises her children's academic and religious education over material gifts.
While she acknowledges the allure of expensive presents, she remains grounded, valuing her children's overall well-being above all else.
