Traditions of an Olas Mom on Mother's Day

This month, we had a Mother’s Day activity with the Olas moms, and I (Beverlyn) had the opportunity to interview one of them, our Olas mom Angélica, who shared her experience and traditions about how she celebrates Mother’s Day.

Beverlyn: How would you describe the experience of being a mom in one word?

Angélica: Being a mom is a blessing. Not all women have the opportunity to have this experience, and for me, having my two daughters is a very special gift. My daughters are miracles of life because we went through very difficult moments when they were little, and there were situations where I thought I might lose them. Thank God they are here with me, and that makes me feel deeply grateful.

Beverlyn: What is the most beautiful part of being a mom for you?

Angélica: The most beautiful part is having someone to share life with emotions, feelings, and special moments. I love going out with my daughters, talking with them, and being an example in their lives. I also enjoy taking care of them and supporting them through every stage of life.

Beverlyn: What does Mother’s Day mean to you?

Angélica: It is a very special day because it reminds me how important it is to value my mom while she is still with me. I am very grateful to be able to spend time with my mom, even though we live far apart. I always try to travel to see her, prepare a special meal for her, or surprise her with flowers because I want her to feel loved and appreciated.

Beverlyn: How do you celebrate this day with your family?

Angélica: We usually get together to prepare Kak'ik, a traditional dish from Baja and Alta Verapaz that my mom loves. We spend time with my aunts, cousins, and other relatives. The most important thing for us is being together and creating memories. We also usually bring flowers and share a cake as a family.

Beverlyn: Do you have a special memory related to Mother’s Day?

Angélica: May 10th is a very important date for me because that is the day my youngest daughter was born. It was an unexpected and very special pregnancy because doctors had told me that I probably would not be able to have more children. Also, years ago, my father passed away on that same date, so for me it represents sadness and joy at the same time. Even so, I always remember this day with gratitude to God.

Beverlyn: What is the most important thing you want to teach your daughters?

Angélica: I want to teach them to be grateful for life and for God. Both of my daughters went through very difficult situations when they were little, so I always remind them that they have been given a second chance. I also want them to pursue their dreams, study, be independent, and never give up despite the difficulties.

Beverlyn: What activities do you enjoy doing with your family?

Angélica: We love traveling and spending time together. My husband and I always try to give them opportunities that we did not have when we were children. We go out, share meals, and truly enjoy spending time together as a family.

Beverlyn: What has been the best Mother’s Day gift you have ever received?

Angélica: The best gift is seeing my daughters happy and knowing that they are good people. I also really value handmade gifts, letters, and kind words. Those small gestures are the ones that fill my heart the most.

Beverlyn: What message would you like to give to other mothers on this day?

Angélica: I would tell them to enjoy their families and value their mothers as much as possible, to always hug them and spend time with them. Love should be shown every day, not only on special occasions. We should also teach our children good values, love, and respect because those are the things that truly remain.