It’s never easy growing up with a Pinoy mom. On one hand, there’s laughter (they can be very funny), on the other, there’s frustration at her methods of discipline (because like typical teenagers we grew up thinking we were right). But growing up, we also realize that the saying is true, our mothers do know best. Even if the words coming out of her mouth are sometimes so outrageous, all you can do is scratch your head.
“Ayan kaka-computer mo yan!”
What she means: She wants you to take better care of yourself and use your time wisely.
Okay maybe not all moms mean this, but in general, they’re naturally concerned for you, your health and your time! Maybe it’s not computer games addiction, maybe you’re on your computer because of your job but she says that line because she wants to remind you that that screen isn’t all there is to life. Even if it is your job.
“Mamimiss niyo rin ako kapag nawala ako.”
What she means: She wants you to tell her that you do love her.
And this is her subtle cheesy way of letting you know. We appreciate our moms a lot of course, but the problem is we’re around them almost all the time that we don’t really express these appreciations through words. Sometimes they need to hear how much you love them and how they’re important to you.
“Oh ‘eto kutsilyo, magsaksakan kayo diyan!”
What she means: She wants you to see that you’re not really angry at your sibling. Frustrated, yes, but it’s an argument you’ll both forget in a few days time.
Western moms might find this statement shocking (because it actually is) but as Pinoy kids, we’re used to it. This is a prime example of how Pinoy moms put an end to sibling fights – they offer them knives. Of course, it’s not literal. And it works.
“Anong boyfriend boyfriend? Hindi ka pa pwede mag-boyfriend!”
What she means: You’re her baby and she doesn’t want you growing old too soon.
Even if you’re 25 years old, as long as you’re still living under her roof, it will be her rules, only because that’s how she shows her love for you. She still wants to protect you and hold you close for as long as possible. Although being the typical Pinoy teenager you’ve probably already had 3 secret relationships (and take it from us it’s not wise to burden yourself with a secret relationship). But don’t worry, by the time you’re 30 years old, she’ll be the one pushing you to marry because she wants to have her apo. Ah, the cycle of Pinoy life.
“Isa!!! Dalawa!!!”
What she means: You better do what she asked or else all will hell break loose.
Usually, Pinoy moms shout this at the top of their lungs and that’s when you know you’re in trouble. You better do as she says before she busts out that walis tambo, sinturon, hanger, or belt!
“Bakit hindi ka sumasagot?” followed by “Aba! Sumasagot ka na ngayon!”
What she means: She’s trying to teach you that what you did was wrong and you better listen because she’s a lot wiser than you are.
It’s true. Our moms are fountains of wisdom if only we were humble and obedient enough to listen to them. Pinoy moms impose different methods of discipline as they see fit, sometimes understanding is all it takes. But still, we can’t help but ask, “San ba ako lulugar?!” Shut up nalang tayo.
“May balak ka pa bang umuwi?! Wag ka nang umuwi!”
What she means: She’s worried that you’re out this late and she wants you home for your safety and her sanity.
Moms are in a perpetual state of worrying for her family. As teenagers, we didn’t like it when our moms kept tabs; we mostly dismissed them as huge hindrances to our freedom and enjoyment. But what we do not know is that they love us and they fear for our safety all the time. It’s a scary world out there, your mom wants you safe.
And sometimes they don’t even have to say anything, they can give you a glare so fierce you actually fear for your life
What she means: “Lagot ka sakin mamaya pag uwi.”
If you’ve ever misbehaved in public especially during family gatherings, you can bet your mom will catch your eye and give you that cold glare. What’s crazy is she manages to pull this off while smiling and apologizing to others for your behavior!
It might seem like we all went through a traumatic childhood with our Pinoy moms but we literally would not be here now if it weren’t for them. Discipline is different for everyone and at one point in your life you might have hated your mom or dad for their ways but there’s no doubting that they did all of those out of love. Our parents love for us is bottomless, never forget that.
So greet your Mom a Happy Mother’s Day and remember to tell her how much you love and appreciate her!
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