My mom: Tough love, soft heart

I have been writing non-stop for almost 10 years. This is my first on my mom.

- By RAMON RAFAEL BONILLA

My mother, Elena Catbagan Bonilla, is not the typical reassuring figure who evokes peace and calmness on days of struggles, nor the calming voice that could put you to sleep on a tranquil night.

She has a temper, especially when stoked by bad behavior of a child or relative, and would mince no words if one deserves such treatment. At times she swings from a wrecking ball, to a punisher to the stubborn and unjust, to a disciplinarian of the highest degree.

My mother is simply unique in her ways that some would not understand or appreciate her intentions. But in the manner of parenting, she and my dad take the prestigious champion award, raising three children with care and compassion, guiding us with words of wisdom, and teaching us to be morally upright. In all tight situations, they were our lifeboat on turbulent waters.

They call my mother’s way as “tough love.” I call her my heroine.