August 15 could have been my mother’s 71st birthday. It might be a sad day for us who are left behind, but this day might be the first grandest birthday of our nanay (mom) in heaven where there is singing and dancing. It feels only yesterday that we were together having casual conversations and feel the touch of each other, but now only her memories remain in our hearts.
It is never easy coping with our loss. A part of me and of my family is missing because a mother’s love is irreplaceable. A mother’s touch is magical. Despite that we already have our own families, her love never stopped there. Her love had no
boundaries but would only be extended to other members added to the family.
Life is uncertain. No one knows what tomorrow brings as only God holds the future. Death will come whether we like it or not. Death is a painful reality to be dealt even though we have faith. But it is not a thing to be afraid of because God promised eternal life after death. How we always wish we can be together with our loved ones longer, but sometimes God has other ways of making things happen. Sometimes we are deeply hurt because we are not prepared and we never expect things to happen in that way.
I will never forget the scene in my mother’s deathbed in hospital the day before she breathed her last. She called me to come near to her because she said she wanted to give me a hug. I never thought it would be her last touch and embrace. It really breaks my heart whenever I think about this.
I believe nanay is now in the hands of the Lord. She is now resting in paradise where there is no more pain and suffering. Maybe nanay knew we can now stand on our own and we can now take care of our own family. She might have gone from our sights but never from our hearts. She will always hold a special space there.
They have been not just one but three members of the family leaving us recently. My mother-in-law also passed away just two months ago. I really treasure the memories spent with her too.
We have gained not just prayer warriors in heaven but also personal guardian angels to guide and watch over us. They are all only a prayer away from us.
Nanay was always devoted to Mother Mary. Never in a day did she miss praying the Holy Rosary. I know nanay was close to Mother Mary’s heart. This is the virtue of my mother. I always want and wish to follow her example of being faithful and prayerful. My mother left a legacy for us to imitate. All I need is God’s grace to persevere so that I can do the same.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
Healing does not come overnight, but it is a process. One thing I am sure that this pains and heartbreaks will come to pass as there is always a time for everything.
Have a sumptous first birthday celebration in heaven, nay. Enjoy the heavenly banquet prepared before you. We love you, nanay.
Lynn Salinas-Batoliño
The Philippines
