Wednesday, December 07, 2005
A Passage
Christmas 2004 at Tito Manny's (seated) home in Las Pinas, Metro Manila, Philippines
It still hits you even when you're expecting it. Came home from a party Saturday. I noticed the phone light was blinking. It was a message from my brother in New Jersey: "I just called to inform you..." even before he finished his sentence I knew it was not good. My uncle passed away Saturday morning. He finally succumbed to cancer after more than a year of struggle and prayers.
We spent Christmas at his home last year. Even then he was not looking good though he put up a cheerful demeanor and a happy visage.
I admire my Tita Hayda's fortitude. In the face of physical, emotional and financial strain she never wavered in her faith and was still able to help other people in need. It was, as they say, a rollercoaster ride and this year was the hardest. My uncle was in and out of the hospital. Hovering from a cognitive state to unconsciousness.
In a sense, my uncle's demise is both a relief and a loss. Relief that he is now resting in peace. No more pain and suffering for him and his loved ones. A loss, for my aunt: a loving husband and best friend, for my cousins: a caring and thoughtful father,for us, his nephews and nieces: an uncle who is always ready to help and give advise.
He will be buried this Saturday, 10 December 2005. I will not be there physically but my prayers and spirit will be.
May God grant eternal repose on his soul and give him everlasting peace.
