The ability to give back to the people who spent years taking care of us.
I sit here writing ahead of Mother’s Day weekend. This has always been one of my favorite times of the year, a chance to celebrate my mom and all that she’s done for me.
I’m not just saying that in case my mom reads this either (obligatory “hi mom”). I am a true “mama’s boy.”
I credit my mom, along with my grandmothers, for making me who I am today. Because of them, I know what love looks like. The backbreaking days of going to work and still coming home to lead and organize a household. The never-ending support, even when it felt undeserved.
As we get older, I think many of us quietly develop a goal that is rarely talked about: the ability to give back to the people who spent so much of their lives taking care of us.
Spending Time Together
One of my favorite things to hear from clients is when they talk about spending time with their children and grandchildren. Whether it’s something simple like going out to lunch or taking trips together, I know that it is money and time well spent.
I believe one of the best ways we can show appreciation to our parents is simply by spending time with them.
My sister does a great job of this with my mom. I appreciate that she’s able to go holoholo with her on weekends and even take her on trips. Those experiences matter more than we realize.
Helping Parents Stay Organized
As technology continues to advance, simply helping parents stay financially organized can go a long way.
My banking background showed me how quickly things change and how difficult it can be to keep up. Accessing accounts online is now commonplace, and it’s important to make sure everything is still working properly and securely.
It feels like we all have hundreds of online accounts and passwords to keep track of nowadays. Sometimes helping parents organize information, reset passwords, or access important accounts can reduce an incredible amount of stress.
The Roles Slowly Change
It’s funny how the roles slowly begin to flip as we get older.
I remember going to my mom whenever I struggled with homework or got stranded somewhere with a flat tire.
Nowadays, I am thankfully more independent, but I also find my mom relying on me more often.
My mom tries not to be a bother, but I know her questions are important, and I try to give her as much of my time as possible.
Sometimes it’s something small or even funny, like my aunty irritating her over lunch. But I also know that simply being a listening ear and someone she can vent to is meaningful.
In Closing
It can feel daunting to think about everything our moms have done for us throughout our lives.
You hear stories about athletes and celebrities buying their moms homes or brand-new cars. Realistically, many of us may never be able to do those things.
But I also believe love is often reflected back in much simpler ways.
In our time.
In our patience.
In helping create a sense of security and peace of mind.
Whether it’s financial or emotional, moms deserve the world. And for many of them, simply knowing they are loved and supported means more than we realize.
Happy Mother’s Day.
Scott H. Tonai CFP®
Wealth Manager, Director of Retirement Plans
Investment advisory services offered through Andrews Advisory Associates LLC, a registered investment advisor. This blog is not meant to give investment advice. Before investing in any advisory product please carefully read any disclosure documents, including without limitation, the firm’s Form ADVs. The information herein is provided for informational purposes only, and does not constitute an offer, solicitation or recommendation to sell or an offer to buy securities, investment products or investment advisory services. Nothing contained herein constitutes financial, legal, tax, or other advice. These opinions may not fit your financial status, risk and return profile or preferences. Investment recommendations may change, and readers are urged to check with their investment adviser before making any investment decisions.
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