My Mother, My Sacred Blessing
My dear ammi*,
Before I knew the ways of the world,
you taught my heart to feel,
how kindness lives in gentle hands,
how love makes healing real.
My mother, like a sacred lotus,
a goddess in my heart,
your tenderness became my shield,
your wisdom shaped my start.
For nine first months of fragile life,
you nourished me with care,
with your own milk, your warmth, your love,
and every whispered prayer.
You taught me right from wrong with grace,
respect without demand,
humility in every step,
and how with truth to stand.
You sacrificed your rest and sleep,
through hardship, strain and pain,
to keep me safe and nourished well,
through sunshine, storm and rain.
You shielded me from every harm,
with love that would not cease,
and gave me shelter, strength and care,
so I could grow in peace.
Through every storm and troubled hour,
your love has helped me stand,
with soothing words and healing strength,
and wisdom in your hands.
The advice you gifted into me
still lights the path I see,
a treasure from your sacred heart,
bestowed so lovingly.
In me, I see your gentle traits,
your patience, hope and art,
your purity of thought and deed,
your goodness in my heart.
Your purity of heart still shines,
with quiet, sacred grace,
a blessing I can always feel
in every time and place.
The world holds you in high regard,
as I have always known,
for every life you touch with love
is brighter than before.
Wherever we may be in life,
whatever paths we find,
you will be in my heart always,
forever in my mind.
My love for you is eternal,
it never will diminish,
but only grow more deeper and stronger,
beyond all earthly limits.
I am forever in your debt,
for all you gave to me,
and every day I humbly pray
more like you I may be.
And every day my reverence grows,
with gratitude so deep,
I worship you within my prayers,
in waking and in my sleep.
My first teacher, sacred mother,
my blessing, light and guide,
whatever good I carry now
began with you inside.
On your birthday, dearest mother,
I honour all you are,
my goddess, my protector,
my everlasting star.
Adisha Kariyawasam
2nd May 2026
Footnote:
* Ammi (or amma) means “mother” in Sinhala, my native mother tongue. It is a tender word of love and respect, also echoed in many South Asian languages.
