Not a Silver, Not a Gold but a Diamond

Have you ever tried to have a conversation with your mom? It's not as simple as asking for permission from your dad. Moms have a unique way of engaging us in a series of questions that often seem never-ending. I vividly remember a time in my 10th grade when I asked my mom for permission to go for a group study at my friend's house. Her inquiries were relentless: Where are you going? Why are you going? Who will you be with? Give me her parents' number. And finally, that tricky question, when will you be back?

Growing up, I always had a special and sometimes humorous relationship with my mother. We seemed to be on opposite sides, constantly denying each other's requests, leading to never-ending conversations. One particular incident stands out during my 11th grade when my friends and I planned a trip to Manali during Dussehra. Excitedly, I called my dad for permission, but to my dismay, my mom answered the call.

With my heart pounding, I asked, "Where is Dad?"

"He's very busy. Do you need anything?" she replied.

I hesitated but continued, "Yes, I wanted to take his permission. All my friends are planning to go to Manali, and I really want to join them. Can you please allow me, Mom?"

Her answer was a firm "No." She was concerned about my safety, despite my assurances that we had planned everything carefully.

I was upset and lashed out, "I hate you, Mom! You always say no to me for everything. Maybe I should have lied to you like my friends do."

The call ended abruptly, and I didn't speak to her for days. But as Diwali approached, we reunited at home for the celebrations. Ignoring my mom, I remained distant and angry. On Dhanteras, a day when we traditionally buy something new or gold, we all went to a jewelry shop - my brother, dad, mom, and me.

On the ground floor, the silver collection was displayed with minimal security. My mom asked, "What is this?"

"This is silver, Mom."

We moved to the first floor where all the gold jewelry sparkled. Again, she asked, "What is this, dear?"

I retorted, "This is gold, Mom. Can't you see it?"

Amused, she replied, "Of course, I can see. But why are there more people and cameras here than on the ground floor?"

With a hint of annoyance, I explained, "Mom, this is gold, and it is much costlier than silver."

Unfazed, she suggested, "Let's go to the third floor and see what's there."

On the third floor, diamonds adorned the displays. Once again, she inquired, "What is this?"

Impatiently, I answered, "This is diamond, Mom. Obviously, there is much more security here than on the first floor."

Her next words left me speechless, "Because dear, I want to tell you that you are a diamond for me, and your brother is silver."

I was taken aback, my heart filled with emotion. My mother's love and wisdom hit me like a tidal wave. Suddenly, all the things I had said to her earlier flashed before my eyes, "I hate you, Mom. You always say no to me." I felt a deep sense of guilt, realizing how ungrateful I had been.

Running towards my mom, I apologized, "I am sorry, Mom. I never should have said that."

With a loving smile, she replied, "It's okay, dear. I love you, and you are the best."

In that moment, I learned a valuable lesson in understanding and appreciation. My mother's love was unconditional and unyielding, like a precious diamond. I vowed to cherish and value her more, recognizing the countless sacrifices she made for me.

From that day on, our conversations took on a new depth. I understood that her questions and concern were all borne out of love, a desire to protect and nurture. Our bond grew stronger, and I began to appreciate her in a way I never had before.

So, if you ever find yourself in a conversation with your mom, embrace it with an open heart.

Behind her questions lies a love as precious as a diamond, shaping and guiding you through life's journey.