Aling Teresa, a 58-year-old market vendor and single mother, had only one dress she cherished — a simple green one she had worn during the most important moments of her life. It was the dress she wore when she gave birth to her son Marco, and again when he graduated from college. With Marco marrying a woman from a wealthy family, Teresa spent months worrying, ashamed that this old, faded dress was all she had for his wedding.

When the day arrived, the church was filled with elegant guests, luxurious outfits, and glowing decorations. Teresa felt painfully out of place the moment she walked in. She heard whispers, saw the stares, and tried her best to hide her discomfort. She didn’t want her son to feel embarrassed. She simply wanted to witness one of the happiest days of his life, even if she looked like she didn’t belong.

But before she could slip quietly into a back pew, Lara — the bride herself — approached her. Radiant in her white gown, Lara took Teresa’s worn hands in hers. Her eyes filled with tears as she softly asked, “Mom… is that the dress you wore when you gave birth to Marco?” Teresa froze, unsure whether shame or pride should fill her heart.

Then Lara hugged her tightly and whispered loudly enough for everyone nearby to hear: “This dress is part of Marco’s story. Without you, there would be no wedding today. Please sit beside me. You’re not just the groom’s mother — you’re my mother too.” And in that moment, the hall fell silent, tears flowed from every direction, and the old green dress became the most beautiful gown in the room.