Kim Atienza (R) with son Jose, who graduated from high school. Image: Instagram/@kuyakim_atienza
Though Kim Atienza’s son Jose had to attend his high school graduation online, he made sure his parents felt special on the milestone occasion.
He gave them each a letter to express his gratitude and admiration in helping him make it to the end of his schooling at the International School Manila in Taguig.
The weather anchor shared his son’s typewritten letter and how touched he was at the sincere words, as seen on his Instagram last Friday, May 29.
“From my childhood to my middle school and up to this day, you’ve shown me how far genuine compassion for others can take an individual,” wrote Jose.
“I’ve also seen you [go] through adversity and then some. You’re the embodiment of what a little perseverance can do for an individual. You’ve managed to overcome every obstacle life has thrown at you and grow as a result, be it physically or spiritually.”
“You continue to inspire those around with your faith, and lead others to show the same compassion and determination in the pursuit of happiness you’ve shown me everyday,” he said.
“I don’t show it often, but I’m thankful to have a father who gives the amount of love you do. As I transition from my teenage years into adulthood and eventually start a family of my own, I aspire to show the same compassion and care you’ve shown me the last 18 years. Thank you, and I love you.”
“I sliced onions. You made my day son. I am so proud of you. Fly as high as you can and if by chance you fall, papa and mama will always be here to catch you,” Kim said.
Felicia Hung Atienza also shared the letter from her son on Instagram yesterday, May 30. In the letter, her son praised her for pushing him to be the best he could be.
“You set a bar that to be me, both academically and in life — and you were always the one to push me to meet it, even if it meant ticking me off,” Jose said.
“You’ve told me to never stop learning, and I don’t intend on doing so. You’re the embodiment of what a quality education and an aspiration to learn can achieve,” he wrote. “You remain to be one of the most brilliant women I know, and I hope, with the lessons you’ve passed on to me, to one day have the same success and fulfillment you’ve had in your life.”
“Am so proud of who you are today. Dream big. Work hard. You are unstoppable. Your letter to mama was deeply poignant,” Felicia said.
The family of five celebrated the graduation day at home, with Jose in a cap and toga while his name and picture were flashed on a screen.
“After 20 years, @jhatienza you shall tell your kids about this day you graduated from HS amidst a pandemic,” said Kim. “We embrace change with courage, kindness and curiosity! We are all proud of you and love you so much [J]ose!” JB
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