The Quiet Power of A Mother’s Belief
I grew up watching my mother never allow me to give up. Her belief was simple yet profound, no matter what happens, one must always find a way forward. She taught me to stand firm in my beliefs, follow my passion, and not be held back by fear. “We all have fears,” she would say, “but do not spend your energy feeding them, channel it to overcome them.”
I recall a defining moment from my postgraduate years when I almost chose not to appear for a particularly difficult paper. Overwhelmed and hesitant, I felt unsure of myself. My mother was in the kitchen when I expressed my fear. Without hesitation, she switched off the stove, held my hand, told me to gather my things, and caught an auto to take me to my college. Standing outside the examination hall, she said gently, “I will be right here, you can do this.” That quiet assurance gave me the courage to walk in—and I emerged not just with good results, but with renewed confidence.
After a long gap, when I decided to pursue my B.Ed to follow the career of my dreams, the same hesitation returned. I questioned myself, would I be able to do this again? Once more, she stepped in with quiet conviction and support. I completed my B.Ed with finesse. At my graduation, she was the proudest of all, and I am certain her applause was the loudest in the hall.
As a child, I was often uncomfortable with public speaking. My mother patiently helped me face this challenge. She would make me stand before her, speak aloud, hold my notes, and even question me, turning practice into preparation. She ensured I addressed my difficulties rather than avoiding them. Today, if I can stand before an audience and speak with confidence, it is because of her unwavering belief in me.
She celebrated my achievements, encouraged my smallest steps, and corrected me when I faltered, always guiding me with empathy and strength.
Today, as a mother and a facilitator, I strive to carry forward that same ethos of belief and compassion in my students and my child. I see reflections of similar fears in them, and I consciously work to create an environment where they feel seen, supported, and capable. Helping them recognise their potential and face their challenges with confidence is not merely my role, it is a responsibility I carry with pride, and one I deeply owe to her.
This Mother’s Day, I celebrate the woman who shaped my courage and character. In fact, it is not just about today—every day for me is a day of gratitude to my Amma. To all mothers, amidst the many roles we play, this role truly defines our core.
Happy Mother’s Day ❤️
Radha Rajesh
HOD – Biology
