My biggest sweetheart, I wasn’t sure if our educational path would lead to this, or if your learning style would. And yet here we are, ready to tackle GCSEs! I’ve seen you work so hard, to hurdle obstacles that are completely invisible to others, to deal with people who see you as capable and smart, which you undoubtedly are, but who don’t see or experience the struggles you have to understand concepts and join the dots to figure stuff out. It’s been a long ride and a very winding one.

I’m not a fan of judging people by a string of letters after their name. Achievements come in all shapes and sizes and should be celebrated – sometimes making dinner for your family is an achievement, or just getting through a day of frustrations in a country that’s complex to live in, or climbing a really big hill (or 3, amiright? 😉 ), and yet I know that your choice to take these exams shows your determination to see them as an opportunity, as a stepping stone on the path to what you achieve in life. And I believe strongly in taking opportunities when we feel they’re right for us and so I believe in you and the hard work you’ve put in through really truly difficult times. Pandemic or not, this has been a rough 2 years.

Along the way you’ve had us, both me and your Baba, here beside you – sometimes physically, sometimes not. I’m here to listen, to feed you, to make sure you’re physically in the right place at the right time and with hugs when they’re needed. And he’s on the end of a zoom call or whatsapp whenever you need to double check maths or concepts I can’t get my head around and to help you focus. I’ve seen how distance has forced Baba to be so much more intentional in his parenting, and that has been a huge positive for you, and for him.

You’re so lucky to have a sister who’s your biggest cheerleader, who picks up the slack on chores when you have an exam the next day, or practices lines or flash cards with you – it’s all part of the support team. And in that team let’s not forget wonderful teachers, from FS1 up, and an incredible learning support assistant who has responded to your own unique needs.

I talk a lot about attributes of our personalities and our hearts being what shows the people we are. Your kindness, thought, friendship, sensitivity and care are such deeply important characteristics that I hope you’ll always nurture. But with this stage you’ve shown different traits and I think the tenacity you’ve displayed will hold you in good stead in achieving your dreams in life. When the exams are over, we’ll all celebrate. Because you dove head first into grasping this opportunity, and whilst the hard work has come from you, but we’ve all been part of the ride.

We love you and we’re so proud of your attitude and determination – we’re always here by your side,

love Mama, xxxx

This post is part of Artifact Motherhood, a collaboration of artists/mothers from around the world. Sharing stories of the joys and struggles of our journey. Our hopes and dreams for our children. With little nuggets of wisdom or refelections on life here and there. These are more than photographs with dates written on the back. These are the artifacts we are leaving behind for our children and the generations to come.

Next please visit the wonderful Hollie Stokes over HERE

May 2022 | New Delhi | India