One of the reasons could be because my parents look younger than they actually are. Also because we grew up with that kind of environment at home. I remember when I was in grade school my father and I would call each other “dude” (and many others I can’t remember; refer to entry #1 point #6).

I grew up in a comfortable relationship with my parents. I could share my little secrets, school crushes, cry over who picked on me in school, ask for advice on different things, ask for things — name it and my parents would go the extra mile in response. They have been supportive of my passions as well.

But you know, it's not always like that. There came a point in my life where I had been a total headache. You know, from teenager things to young adult shenanigans.

I learned to keep secrets from them, I learned to hide things, I learned to lie. I have disappointed them many many times. Made them cry buckets of tears. Gave them such a hard time. Pushed them to their limits.

There came a point in my life where my parents and I had a gap between us. You know, this space that gets filled-in by things you don't say to each other. Things I've been keeping from them, thinking they will not understand.

(I'm sorry I'm having a hard time writing examples, my brain is blocking the bad memories.)

But I will try my best to describe my relationship with them without those examples which I think is unnecessary anyway.

I couldn't fully function every time I get into an argument with my father.

The house would feel uncomfortable whenever I have a misunderstanding with my mother.

My father told me I am his kryptonite.

And to my mother, I am her prize; her firstborn.

It's amazing how much value they see in me. And I will forever be thankful to the Lord for mending the gap I had with my parents. For restoring my relationship with them and turning it into something better!

Right now, I can proudly say they are my best friends. I have never been this transparent to them — sharing frustrations and future plans, dating tips (weirds me out the most lol), discussing spirituality and faith, even talking about my depression! I can tell them everything!

It amazes me how a parent can have an unending source of willpower, forgiveness, perseverance, and faith. That no matter how much I disappointed them, they would still choose to forgive me and help me out of every situation. It might be a cliche but it is true that your parents will only want what is best for you.

I hope we live each day grateful to our parents; for their sacrifices and love, for nurturing us and standing by our side every step of the way, for bearing with us all the time and for the patience that had never run dry.

Make it a habit to express your love for them in simple ways. May it be a handwritten letter, a hug, a thank you, a dinner date, a cup of coffee, or saying those three words! We have to face the reality that they are not in this world forever; let's make everyday count.

I also hope and pray that in every situation, we would choose to continually honour them. As it is written in Exodus 20:12,