Usually when we’re asked about who inspires us in life, we mention iconic figures in history, newsmakers, innovators or even celebrities. Yet, those who leave an indelible mark on our lives are our family, and the most unsung heroes are our mothers. Here, Zara Musa, a high school student based in Abu Dhabi, talks about that one person who rises head and shoulders above the rest.
By Zara Musa
Dear mum, you are a courageous and independent woman, who has overcome many great adversities and consistently inspires me to become a better person everyday. As a single parent, we have obviously had our struggles. We sometimes struggle with financial issues and responsibilities, and I have had my own struggles with mental illness. Despite these great challenges, you have incredible resilience, showering me with love and affection, whilst simultaneously striving to create a stable and nurturing environment for me to grow and flourish in.
Whenever I struggle with something, I can always talk you about anything, whether its homework issues or other problems. You always put down whatever you are doing to listen and give me advice.
You have taught me about a good day’s work, and how important it is to develop different skills, such as financial responsibility and a stronger sense of independence. You always make me do my housework, and I occasionally help set up things at your workplace, such as artwork for exhibitions or props for school shows. Sometimes I don’t feel like helping, but I know you help me gain discipline, which will be useful when I go off to university in a few years. We have our arguments occasionally, but at the end of the day, I know that you are just looking out for me and you want me to have my best future.
One thing that inspires me about you is how selfless and kind you are. Not just to me, but to everyone around you. Ever since you were a teenager, you have done countless volunteering work for those less fortunate than us. Even when you started your teaching job, you continued to help students with their various issues, varying from help on their GCSE projects, to mental health advice.
You consistently inspire me into becoming an artist, although I have been leaning towards more of a musically inclined career path. In fact when we lived in Ireland, you would volunteer at the Big Brother
Big Sister program, which meant you would help troubled children and mentor them. You are an excellent role model to these children and I really strive to be as friendly and as selfless as you when I am older.
Throughout my life, you have always supported my choices in life. When we first moved to Abu Dhabi, you were supportive of my decision to start playing piano and start singing, constantly helping me with my practicing and giving me inspiration.
You supported my musical journey from the very beginning, always coming to my concerts and helping me with my competitions such as YMOG and ADYM. Although I have not won any of these comps, you have comforted me when I was sad, and encouraged me to work harder and become the best version of myself.
I strive to be like you, mum, when I am older.
