Nanay Rosa

Yesterday afternoon, we received terrible news. The woman, who helped raise my dad in his youth, and as far as I can remember was a huge part of my childhood, passed away. And under such heart-breaking circumstances too.

I remember her strict rules about using the coaster when you set the glass on the table, or how not to leave the fridge door open too long, or how to change out of my school uniform the moment I arrived from school. And oh how I loathed those rules when I was kid. But I followed them nonetheless for she had this terrifying glare that could pierce into my soul (or at least that how it seemed like at the time). I kind of miss it now. Long after she had stopped working for us, (although she still wanted to,but it just wasn't right to let an elderly woman continue to work as house help), she was still very close to the family. Turning up on merry occasions to greet whoever a happy birthday, or to wish everyone a merry Christmas, or just to say hello and give the children she helped raise a weak, but very loving hug.

What pains me the most is that the last I saw her, she had gained weight and looked very healthy, and we were joking about not having a Christmas present for her. We of course did, and she went home smiling. It breaks my heart to recall how she smiles now because it makes me want to cry.

We aren't blood related in any way but she's grown to be part of the family way before I was even born. And what absolutely kills me now is that the cause of death (pneumonia) would have easily been prevented because it started merely with a cold. But she didn't go to our clinic because she didn't have to money to pay for the fare. Oh had we only known. Writing about her is the only way I could maybe, somehow honor her.

She was one great woman, and I will miss her.

So, I ask you, please say a little prayer for her.

Rest in Peace Nanay Rosa...