Captains' Corner | Charlie Gaspar, College Vice Captain
I have decided to devote my writing to this Sunday 12 May, more commonly known as Mother's Day. Thus, before I share this week's article, here are a few words to prompt the Gentlemen of Terrace reading this as we get closer to Sunday:
- Don't fight with your siblings; instead, deal with disputes in an orderly way.
- Get/do something nice for your mother. This could be as simple as breakfast in bed, with a nice cup of coffee; it doesn't have to be anything fancy, as long as it's genuine.
- Don't stop once Sunday is over. Your mother's tireless efforts persist daily, so your gratitude should extend beyond this weekend.
With all that in mind, I'd like to share the story of a woman who deserves much more appreciation than any Mother's Day could ever give. I'd like you to meet Louise Gaspar, aka my mum. This is her story.
Born and raised in a chaotic Brisbane house with three older siblings and a twin brother, it is no surprise that Mum was forged into a fighter from day 1. Her tales of sitting on the front of a four-wheel drive going 100km/h along Fraser's Island are legend to the trio of Gaspar children - me included. To say the least, the lore from her uphill battles against 'Auntie Jane' will be passed down from generation to generation for centuries to come.
However, it is not my mum's fighting spirit that I admire most, but rather her empathetic character that becomes infectious when nearby. It is impossible not to feel the effects of the love and joy she spreads daily.
Whilst they do an alright job, words cannot express our gratitude for our mothers. Instead, the only thing that can truly reflect it is our daily actions.
So, to all young men and women reading this, make a conscious effort, not just this Sunday but every day after, to show how much your mother means to you. If you don't know how, ask your mother. They have been doing it since you were born.
Have a great Mother's Day.