Gratitude in Service to Parents

If there’s one relationship that exemplifies unconditional love, it is the bond we share with our parents. They are the architects of our earliest days, our cheerleaders through life’s trials, and the custodians of invaluable wisdom. While we often express our love through words, actions speak louder, and one of the most profound ways to show gratitude is through acts of service. Serving our parents isn’t just about fulfilling duties; it’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of all they’ve done for us.

Recently, I had an experience that reinforced the beauty of serving one’s parents. This Sunday morning felt like more than just a Sunday. As I woke up with thoughts of my parents, I realized how much I missed them. We don’t reside in the same house, so I decided to pay them a visit with a plan in mind to cook something special for them.

A Thoughtful Beginning

The journey began with a trip to the local market. As I walked through the bustling aisles, I mentally planned the menu. I wanted to make a dish that wasn’t just delicious but also carried the warmth of my gratitude. I chose to make egusi soup, a dish my parents love, especially with swallow. The ingredients were fresh tomatoes, ground egusi, stockfish, goat meat, ugu leaves, locust beans, fresh pepper, onions, kpomo, and Knorr Maggi seasoning. The thought of this flavourful meal brought a smile to my face.

As I navigated the market, an amusing incident occurred. After buying egusi and stockfish, I got distracted and forgot to pick up the stockfish I had paid for. While waiting to purchase meat, a kind woman tapped me and said she thought I had forgotten my fish. True to her words, it was still sitting on the counter. I thanked her profusely, but as I arranged the items in my leather bag, the bag tore, and my vegetables fell to the ground. It was a mess, and I couldn’t salvage them. However, the same kind woman offered me a discounted replacement. Her generosity felt like a small blessing amidst the chaos.

A Labor of Love

Back home, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work. The kitchen, my happy place, buzzed with activity. I chopped, stirred, and seasoned, ensuring each step was done with care and precision. The air filled with the aroma of spices blending harmoniously, and I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of my parents’ reactions.

The egusi soup came together beautifully rich, flavourful, and filled with all the goodness I had planned. The table was set simply but thoughtfully.  Neatly arranged dishes and a cozy atmosphere that carried the essence of home. Everything was ready, and so was I.

The Moment of Truth

When I invited my parents to the table, their faces lit up with surprise and delight. They sat down, and I watched as they took their first bites. The look of satisfaction on their faces was priceless. My dad gave me a thumbs-up, and my mom couldn’t stop praising the Flavors. 

The Inevitable Question

As we were eating, my mom suddenly chimed in, “Eehh, when are you bringing your husband again?” I knew that question was coming, and I somehow passed it respectfully with a confused facial expression. My dad chuckled, and my mom, being the quintessential Igala mother, didn’t insist but let it slide. We laughed over it, but I didn’t escape the accompanying "preach" about settling down early and bringing home a good man. It was all in good spirits, and moments like these remind me of the uniqueness of parental love equal parts tender and teasing. But what touched me the most were their words after the meal.

They showered me with prayers, blessings, and words of affirmation that brought tears to my eyes. They reminded me of the joy they felt seeing me grow into someone thoughtful and kind. In that moment, I realized that the act of service wasn’t just about cooking; it was about creating a memory, a moment of connection, and a testament to our bond.

Why Service Matters

Serving our parents is a way of giving back, even in the smallest measure, for the countless sacrifices they’ve made. From sleepless nights to guiding us through life’s storms, their love knows no bounds. Acts of service, whether it’s cooking a meal, helping with chores, or simply spending quality time, speak volumes about our appreciation.

Moreover, serving our parents teaches us humility and strengthens family ties. It’s a reminder that love is not just about receiving but also about giving. In a world that often prioritizes self-interest, serving our parents grounds us and keeps us connected to our roots.

My Call to Action

As I reflect on this experience, I’d like to encourage you to take a moment and think about how you can serve your parents. It doesn’t have to be grand or elaborate. Simple gestures, like preparing their favourite meal, running errands, or even writing them a heartfelt letter, can make a world of difference.

Set aside time in your busy schedule to create moments of joy for them. Random Sundays or any day of your choice could be an opportunity to surprise them with a thoughtful gesture. If you’re far away, a call or a thoughtful gift can convey your love and gratitude. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about intention and effort.

A Closing Reflection

As the day ended and I cleaned up the kitchen, I felt a deep sense of fulfilment. The prayers and blessings my parents gave me felt like a treasure, a reward far greater than anything material. That day, I wasn’t just their child; I was a grateful child, acknowledging the depth of their love through my actions.

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to take our parents for granted. But let’s not forget that they’re aging, and every moment we spend with them is a gift. Let’s cherish them, serve them, and make them feel loved and appreciated every chance we get. After all, gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it’s a way of life.