Despite any disagreements, or being annoyed with each other, my mum always told me one thing: “Come home, no matter what”. It wasn’t just about our humble HDB flat which I know and love, but the concept that I always had a place where I belonged, no matter what. In a world where everything is reciprocal, a mother’s love is unconditional, without me having to prove anything.
- DDS
I still remember the day I didn’t get selected as head prefect in school - it felt like I had missed my one huge chance to stand out. I went home disappointed, wondering if I had somehow fallen short.
That was when my mom sat me down and gave me a piece of advice I’ve never forgotten. She told me to think of life like a football team. Not everyone is meant to be the captain or the star striker scoring the goals. Some are midfielders who control the game or are the playmakers creating scoring opportunities, making that all-important, critical assist, some are defenders who hold everything together, and some are even goalkeepers - the last line of defence, often unseen but absolutely crucial.
She said the key isn’t chasing every role, but discovering where I fit best, where my strengths truly lie. “Find your position,” she told me, “And then work on it until you become exceptional at it.”
That moment shifted my perspective. I realised that missing one opportunity didn’t mean I had no place - it just meant I hadn’t yet found my position on the field. And when I do, my goal isn’t just to play, but to master that role and become a star in my own way.
Fast forwarding to today, I am not a high-flying scholar, neither am I a director or a leader managing a huge team. But when people hear of my name, they know I'm a master in what I do and what I do can make a positive impact in the lives of many.
- Michael Ma
As a new father to an eight-month-old daughter, my mum often reminds me to cherish the fleeting moments when my daughter falls asleep gently on my shoulder, when her tiny hands reach out curiously to touch everything around her, and when her world is still small enough to fit within my arms.
She advises me not to wish for this period to pass faster, even though parenthood can be tiring. Because one day, I may no longer feel those little hands reaching for me. One day, she will fall asleep on her own instead of on my shoulder. And when that day comes, I will find myself missing these simple moments of having her weight in my arms and the gentle touch of her curious hands all around the house.
- Tony
During the years living away from Singapore, pursuing dreams and navigating life's challenges in foreign lands, the most precious advice my mother ever gave me wasn't about career success or financial planning. Instead, it was her gentle blessing that echoed through every phone call, every message, and every quiet moment of homesickness: 'You know that the arms of your home are always here for you.'
These simple words became my anchor during the toughest times abroad. Mum's wisdom taught me that the greatest gift a mother gives isn't just shelter from life's storms, but the confidence to weather them knowing you're deeply loved. May all mothers be blessed to receive the same boundless embrace they so freely give, and may their journeys be filled with the joy they've nurtured in our hearts.
- Jiang
- Hafiz
It's helped me through so many moments when I realise I'm being too hard on myself.
- Alex
Looking back, she gave me more than enough. She gave me strengh, love and a home I carry wherever I go.
- Bakri
My mother shared this with me casually during a walk to dinner in my university days, but it stayed with me. Back then, I was often caught up in people-pleasing and trying to fit into different circles. Her words struck a chord, gently reminding me to make choices I can stand by - even when they don't make sense to others!
- Yvonne
Having lost my mother two decades ago, those words have become my compass. She taught me that life isn't measured by length, but by the love we share.
- Wen Sheng
I used to hear it whenever I got caught up in what others were doing or achieving. At that time, it felt a bit naggy, but now I realise she was trying to keep me grounded. Life feels a lot less stressful when I just focus on what I can control and do it properly. It's simple advice but it's one that stuck.
- John
For me, this advice applies whether for parenting, managing teams or approaching life's priorities.
- SC
- Pet
- Jansmunoz
- KK
Like what you see? Share with a friend.