Ode to Tatay

It is not about how long you lived, but how well you did.  Indeed you lived well. We remembered…people did.

July 29 was the saddest homecoming I ever had. The weather is gloomy, the heaven is crying with us and the lights are out. The whole universe seems to be mourning with us as we lost the pillar of our home, the very person we see as epitome of strength of character and selflessness. We lost our father.

Our lives will never be the same again; every meal will not be the same. A vital fraction of our every smile, the pillar who keeps us amidst life’s adversities is lost. Your sudden death is almost unbearable to us, your sons and nanay. Yet the stories of people you have touched lessen the pain. Indeed, you fulfilled the dream of leaving your good name as a legacy to your family. We felt their love, prayers for strength and support. To your last days you ensured that we will not be thoroughly burdened, that there will be people who will be with us…. to help us, support us.

Almost a month has passed, yet I will never forget that night when Nanay rang to tell me that you’re gone. The hurt is still the same like an open wound.

I was not the best, guilty of neglect. But to you Tatay, I have so much respect. You were like our rock . . . strong, faithful and true.

For always understanding, listening, caring, and loving us, Thank You. It’s difficult to let you go but we must…. We must return the gift God gave us. ‘Till we meet again.