There are no benchmarks for a mother’s unconditional love for her children. It’s the kind of unwavering affection that cannot be reduced to a checklist of traits. Because to love unconditionally is to accept her children with no restrictions or stipulations, regardless of circumstances or a child’s actions.
Michelle Ressa Aventajado wears many hats. But the most important hat she wears 24/7 is being a hands-on mom to Gia, Miguel, Diego and Gelli. It is motherhood that fuels her to face each day with purpose and passion.
“Gelli gave me courage, even when she was an infant. The most fragile child empowered me in the most mighty of ways. Her extra chromosome rocked my world… She taught me how to be brave in serving those who are often underserved. And because of her, I didn't just want to root for the underdog or serve the marginalised. I had to advocate. Her birth changed the lifelong volunteerism where I felt I was being led to a lifelong advocate. I advocate like a mother!” says the Momma ’N Manila blogger whose motherhood-inspired advocacies centre on diversity and inclusion that are largely focused on children and families.
"There is no greater warrior than a mother protecting her child.”
- N. K. Jemisin -
Sujata Sheth: Ode of Love
Sujata Sheth is like a hurricane that never stops giving to her family. To her two young daughters she is their wonder woman who is strong, honest, and continues to push the boundaries. Inspired by fellow mothers who shared the same sentiment of keeping precious memories of their children, she launched Art4Keep, a startup keepsake of treasured artworks as an ode of love to her family and other moms out there.
“Does this spark joy?” The quintessential catchphrase prompted us to clear our closets following KonMari method: tidying up by "quickly and completely" discarding whatever it is in the house that doesn't spark joy. This time the decluttering diva is taking her principle to the next level by focusing on what sparks joy in our life rather than on what to get rid of. What do you want to put in order? Embracing the Japanese concept of Kurashi, what sparks joy in Marie is the time she spends with her kids even if it means de-prioritising the load of laundry piling up in the washroom. Kurashi roughly translates to “way of life” or “the ideal way of spending our time”. She has shifted her priorities. There’s nothing more important to her than enjoying spending time with her children at home.
Nothing touches the human heart more than a compelling story that sparks hope, encouragement and good vibes. Many resonate with us. Others nudge us to take action. Some urge us to pause and ponder. A few restore our faith in humanity.
Weekly Sparks’ pursuit of enriching stories connects us to diverse communities of awe-inspiring individuals who open their hearts (some reluctantly) hoping that in sharing their struggles, pain and, eventually, triumphs someone out there can find the courage to pursue his/her aspirations.
We find such kinship with Women of the World. They are dreamers and believers. Their collective narrative of pushing boundaries and overcoming limitations is proof that anything is possible if we walk with the dreamers, the believers, the courageous and the doers. May their daring spirit ignite a fire within you.
Our Story is really about their stories. They reflect who we are at a deeper level, beyond roles and goals.