A Mother’s Irreplaceable Presence

For many expatriates, distance from family often deepens the emotional significance of home, culture and parental relationships. Among these, the bond between a mother and child remains one of the most enduring aspects of personal life. Bangladeshi expatriate Muhammad Shahed Rahman has reflected on this experience through his memories of living abroad, particularly during religious festivals and moments of illness.

Rahman writes that mothers represent comfort, security and emotional reassurance in ways that become more apparent during life overseas. According to him, people living far from their homeland often experience a stronger attachment to family memories, especially during important occasions such as Eid celebrations.

He recalls that when he first began living abroad, he deeply missed both his parents. The sense of absence became particularly noticeable during his first Eid in the United Kingdom. In Bangladesh, Eid mornings had traditionally begun with his mother waking the family early. He and his brothers would then accompany their father to the Eid congregation before visiting their grandmother’s grave. Upon returning home, they would greet their mother, who welcomed them warmly.

However, during his first Eid in London, Rahman said the atmosphere felt markedly different. While preparing for Eid prayers with his wife, he experienced a sense of emptiness stemming from the absence of his parents and familiar family traditions. Before leaving home, he telephoned his mother and exchanged Eid greetings with both parents. At the time, it was already afternoon in Bangladesh. Speaking with his mother, he said, brought him emotional relief and helped ease the sadness associated with celebrating Eid away from home.

Rahman notes that many expatriates spend years observing Eid without the physical presence of close family members. According to him, the emotional distance becomes especially noticeable during major religious and family gatherings.

He also described how communication with his mother continued to play an important role during difficult periods abroad. Whenever he or his daughter became ill, he would speak with his mother through video calls. He said his mother would recite verses from the Qur’an, including Surah Yasin and Surah Al-Fatiha, and offer prayers for their recovery. Alongside seeking medical advice from doctors in London, he and his family found emotional comfort in those conversations.

Rahman stated that nearly five years have passed since his mother’s death. As a result, Eid celebrations no longer include phone conversations with his parents. Reflecting on recent Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in London, he said the absence of his mother remains deeply felt.

He encouraged those whose mothers are still alive to maintain communication with them, particularly during Eid and other important occasions. He also offered prayers for deceased mothers, quoting the supplication: “Rabbir hamhuma kama rabbayani saghira.”

Rahman concluded that no relationship can replace the role of a mother, adding that even a few words from one’s mother can provide immense peace.

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