In the lead up to Mother’s Day, we hear from Clifford Khong to find out what it was like growing up with a mother who always strived to give her best to everyone she encounters.
Little else in the world compares to the depth, purity and vastness of a mother’s love. On top of being mothers, most women also juggle a variety of other roles.
Dato’ Ruby Khong, the president of Kechara Soup Kitchen, is one of them. The selfless lady with a heart of gold, who is always seen with a bright smile at events, didn’t only single-handedly raise 3 children, but still found time in between to contribute every spare minute she has at the soup kitchen, helping and making a difference in the lives of the less fortunate.
In the lead up to Mother’s Day, we hear from Clifford Khong, the youngest son of Dato' Ruby, to find out what it was like growing up with a mother who always strived to give her best to everyone she encounters.
What is the one fondest memory you have with your mother?
Growing up, my mother used to make sure my siblings and I would eat only healthy meals. The best times were when she used to cook her famous Bihun Soup noodles with a family chili recipe, legendary! It's one of my fondest memories because she doesn't have the time to cook anymore.
What are some of her favourite things to indulge in?
When we were young, she used to focus all her time on leisure, holidays, hand bags, branded clothes, tennis, expensive dinners. But as she has transformed, all her indulgence has been focused towards her compassion for others. She is constantly working, constantly finding ways to help others in need, not just focusing on Kechara Soup Kitchen alone but how Kechara Soup Kitchen can also help other NGOs address social issues in our country. She indulges in her love for others.
Growing up, how did she keep you in check? Was she the bad cop of the good cop?
My mother has always been very strict with her children; she always played the bad cop in order to keep us in check. Now that I'm older I really appreciate how she had sacrificed her own ego and popularity with her children in order to teach us valuable lessons. We have made many mistakes in our lives growing up but my mother has never failed to be there for us and help us get back on our feet. She used to tell us better we make the mistakes now while she is around than when she is not.
How much has your relationship with your mum changed from when you were younger compared to now?
It has definitely changed a lot through time; being a tough mother she made sure we were always on our best behaviour and make the right decisions. As we grew older, she gave more and more responsibilities to us for ourselves. We have a loving, mutually respectful relationship; she will only give her opinions but will allow us to make our own decisions like any parent would.
What is one of her habits that you've always found amusing?
It has got to be her constant attitude to always be situationally aware and alert of everything. Completing as much of her tasks as possible, and being the last one to sleep and the earliest one to wake up ready to go out and find what more she can do to help.
Do you still live with your mother? If not, what is one thing you miss most?
Yes I do; with my sisters having moved out, I feel someone needs to be around to take care of her.
What is the most important lesson she has imparted to you while growing up?
Always be honest, never lie and have integrity. Always be alert and responsible for your own word and actions. Never make false promises; always keep to your word.
How much has she shaped the person you are today?
Oh definitely a whole lot of what I am today. She made a lot of sacrifices to ensure all three of us grew up right to be good people, receive a good education, with good health and with food on the table. She has inspired not only me but everyone around her through her transformation from helping others. I am glad she was a tough mother; I wouldn't be the person that I am today without her.
She will be reading this, no doubt. What would you want to say to her?
Keep doing what you are doing and never give up. Persevere in your endeavours, your children will always have your back. You are helping thousands of people, giving relief to their sufferings and you are loved by many, not only by your own children. You have been a great part of my life and you have helped me stand on my own two feet; you do not have to worry about me as there are many others who are less fortunate that you are helping. I love you.
(Photos: Clifford Khong)
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