What I learned from mom

Since parents are our first teachers, we learn our life lessons from them. We see firsthand how they handle certain situations and often react in similar ways when we grow older.

We asked Sparkle talents to pick out the most important lesson they learned from their mother which remains true to this day. Does mother know best? For these respondents, the answer is, “Most definitely.”

Radson Flores (right) and Joanne Flores

Radson Flores’ mother pointed out to him the importance of cherishing the small victories in life in order to get the grand ones. “She said that some dreams are scary, but that’s what makes it a dream. If you take things slowly and enjoy your small wins in life, you won’t even realize you’ve already made it,” Radson said.

Shuvee Etrata (right) and Jorena Etrata

Kindness, generosity

Shuvee Etrata’s mother taught her the value of kindness. “She always emphasized the importance of treating others with empathy, compassion and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances,” Shuvee said.

Ashley Sandrine Yap (left) and Melody Yap

Kindness and generosity were the lessons Ashley Sadrine Yap’s mother taught her. “My mother has always been this way towards people whether she’s known them for years or even just a day. She set such a great example for me my whole life that I feel like it came naturally to me and my brother as well. These little acts of kindness and generosity go a long way. They touch the lives of people that you meet and they will always remember you for them,” Ashley said.

John Clifford (right) and Sofia Gawchua —CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Trust in God

John Clifford’s mother taught him to value the time of others and to not expect everything to go his way.

“When I’m working, I always make it a point to be on time or even earlier. Even if the venue for the rehearsal or taping is far from my house, I’m certain I have coworkers who live even farther away,” John said.

He admitted that it was difficult to adjust at first but that his mother said early on that there would be many challenges in this industry. “Hindi lahat ay magiging madali pero ang dedication ko para sa aking trabaho at pangarap ang magpapalakas sa akin para hindi ako susuko.”

Rain Matienzo (left) and Lorna Matienzo

The lesson Rain Matienzo learned from her mother was to put her trust in God. “Life has its ups and downs, and people—no matter how much they try—can still disappoint you somehow,” Rain said. “The one thing that remains constant is God’s character and I get to rest in that. Thank you, Ma!”

What was it that Cinderella’s (Lily James) mother told her in the 2015 Disney movie? “Have courage and be kind.”