Finding fullness in what remains: The story behind “Kulang man, sapat pa rin”
As a society, we often paint a picture of the ideal family, a picture that can leave many feeling like they don’t quite measure up. But what if “being enough” wasn’t about fitting a mold, but about cherishing the love and connections we already have? This is the powerful message at the heart of “Kulang Man, Sapat Pa Rin”, a children’s book by Merly Barcelo, beautifully illustrated by Rizia Adao, that celebrates diverse family structures and the enduring power of love.
“I was so inspired to write “Kulang Man, Sapat Pa rin” because, as a solo parent, I’ve seen both the challenges and the beauty of raising child on my own. My daughter has been my greatest inspiration—our journey together taught me that it’s never easy to face the challenges of doing things alone, making tough decisions, and carrying both roles at once. Yet, through every struggle, I’ve learned that love makes us whole,” Merly Barcelo stated.
She also added, “I dearly value my daughter’s feelings, especially knowing that despite her inner pain, she tries hard to understand and accept the kulang in our life. In her own little ways, she shows her love, patience, and understanding—and that means the world to me. I wanted to write “Kulang Man, Sapat Pa Rin” to remind children and parents that completeness is not about having everything—it’s about cherishing what we have, recognizing each other’s efforts, and finding fullness in love and acceptance.”
LINCOLN’S JOURNEY: FINDING ENOUGH IN A SINGLE-PARENT HOME
The story follows Lincoln, a young boy who lives with his mother. He sometimes wonders why his family isn’t like others. Like many children, he isn’t spared from the teasing of his classmates. But through the people around him, his experiences, and his mother’s unconditional love, he learns that even if something seems missing, what truly matters is the love that fills their home.
The title, “Kulang Man, Sapat Pa Rin” suggests that even with something missing, there is still enough. Lincoln’s story shows that happiness doesn’t come from what we lack, but from how we value what’s already there. Though he grows up in a single-parent home, he learns that through little and simple deeds, he can still experience care, laughter, and a sense of belonging every day. The story encourages readers to see that from what seems lacking can emerge true strength, genuine worth, and lasting joy.
A MESSAGE OF ACCEPTANCE AND RESILIENCE
“The main message I hope children will learn from reading this book is that families come in many forms—and that every kind of family is special and enough. I also hope they learn to look beyond what’s missing and appreciate the love that surrounds them. It’s a message of gratitude, acceptance, and emotional resilience.”
“If Lincoln could say one thing to other children in similar situation, he would probably say, “I want you to always remember that you are enough. You are loved, and that’s what truly matters.” Lincoln would remind them that despite the imperfections in life, whether in a family or any relationship, there is always a reason to be happy and that simple reason is what truly makes a family complete, not the number of people in it,” Merly specified.
NAVIGATING LOSS, CELEBRATING LOVE
‘Kulang Man, Sapat Pa Rin’ acknowledges a lack but emphasizes sufficiency. The story doesn’t ignore the feeling of “kulang.” It allows children to recognize their emotions—sadness, confusion, or longing—but gently guides them toward gratitude and hope. It celebrates every single moment of love and connection every day shows that life, though imperfect, can still be beautiful.
REDEFINING FAMILY THROUGH LOVE AND CARE
‘Kulang Man, Sapat Pa Rin’ contributes to a broader conversation about diverse family structures and the meaning of family. It opens the door for conversations about how families come in all shapes and sizes—single-parent homes, blended families, grandparents raising grandchildren, and more. The book helps normalize these experiences and encourages empathy among children, guardians, teachers, and parents. It redefines “family” not by structure, but by love and care.
A HOPE FOR COMFORT AND COURAGE
“My ultimate hope for ‘Kulang Man, Sapat Pa Rin’ and the children who read it is that children who feel “kulang” will find comfort and courage in its pages. I want them to realize that they are enough—and that their stories matter. For parents and teachers, I hope the book becomes a gentle reminder to see the strength and beauty in every kind of family,” the author finally said.
Through Merly Barcelo’s heartfelt words and Rizia Adao’s captivating illustrations, “Kulang Man, Sapat Pa Rin” offers powerful message of hope, acceptance, and enduring strength of love. It’s a book that will resonate with children and adult alike, reminding us that even when something seems missing, what remains can be more that enough. It’s a reminder that love, in all forms, is what truly makes a family whole.
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