A trip for a treat

CEBU, Philippines — It’s Mother’s Day and many mom-loving children – whether kids or grownups – want to make this day really special for Mom. Even among children who can afford luxury, it is not easy deciding which treat would have the greatest impact on their mother on this special day. A good idea can really make the difference.

Here’s one idea to consider: a trip for a treat! The family need not squeeze themselves into a fully packed city restaurant for a great meal to celebrate Mother’s Day. And cooking at home for Mom may have become quite ordinary.

Taking Mom on a short trip can be a fresh idea. No, it’s not a trip somewhere to have a picnic, although that would be nice as well. But simply taking Mom on a drive around town is something else – here the main thing is going somewhere.

In Cebu City, the family may take a trip to the flower fields up in Busay. Up there, there’s also some vantage point that ushers in a good view of the city. And everyone will be amazed at what meaningful conversations can sprout amid such natural beauty.

Even a trip around already familiar places can reveal something interesting. That big rock up the hill may strike Mom as something else after a long time since she saw it last. Things can take on new meanings in the light of one’s new life experience.

Another thing, a trip can be refreshing by the mere change of surroundings. With moms who are confined within four walls on most days, either at home or in the office, going somewhere can provide a much needed emotional and psychological breather. Out there, their eyes have room to wander and see the “other sides” of life.

And the kids and their mother can talk about things other than themselves. In the home environment, “themselves” can mean their issues, their problems. Too much of the home can at times be suffocating.

Maybe there’s a nook on beach nearby along the road where Mom and daughter or son can sit together, savor the sweet scent of the sea and speak to each other without words. That’s a more meaningful conversation. And that’s a different way of celebrating.

If distance is an issue because no one wants to go farther than a kilometer away in the present heat and on dusty road, a walk together to the nearby park or mall may do just as well. Many people prefer walking to driving. They see more of the world when walking.

The important point is to make the effort to go somewhere with Mom. It’s symbolic of one’s intention of getting away from it all to be with the most important woman in one’s life. Most moms will probably say it’s too much trouble – but every well-meaning son or daughter knows that Mom is worth all the effort.

Some moms may have grown rather frail and are no longer up for a walk. Then perhaps they’re more comfortable on a ride that goes slow enough for them to enjoy the passing sights. Above all, conversation is very important, whether it entails words or just silence.

With moms who can no longer physically go somewhere, taking a trip could mean something else. The loving company of family and friends is enough to take them up to seventh heaven. It’s enough for them to know that they are remembered on Mother’s Day.