A day after Mom was laid to rest, my nephew graduated in 12th grade with flying colors, top of his class, first in research (regional category), and received many other awards. Unfortunately, I missed the ceremonies because I was still at my parents' place, helping Dad organize things and tidy up. But we joined them in the celebration from lunch to dinner. It was a momentous event, and we were joyful and proud.
I cannot help but think Mom timed her goodbye so well. Not on the 8th as it was my wedding anniversary. I would not know what to feel or celebrate if she breathed her last on the same day. As if she counted the days that her funeral would fall a day before her grandson's graduation. What are the odds? Thank you, Mom.
Some relatives were vocal in saying our mother's legacy lives on with her grandkids, as they are all top achievers in their academic pursuits. We do not doubt it, but we also believe Dad has his contributions😅
But yes, it's amazing how time goes by (I keep saying that). It felt like it was only a few years ago when he was just a little boy, flaunting his cute swimsuit at the pool (I wish I could add that pic here). He's grown up so fast, now a fine young man who dances with his heart and is ready to explore the world.
"What are you taking at the Uni?" I asked him sometime last year, a month before the entrance examination at one of the top universities in the city (also my alma mater). "Maybe Chemical Engineering," he said, sounding unsure or unconvinced. "Well, you still have time to listen closely to your heart. I believe you wouldn't settle for anything less just to have something to take on," I teased.
He did have a change of mind and decided he'd go to med school. I did not ask, but perhaps his grandma's illness was one of the motivations. He was very close to her, and each time he visited her in the hospital, he would tease, "Lola (grandma), isn't it true that I'm your one and only Apo? (he meant grandchild)." Mom would laugh, saying, "Oh no. There is..." and goes on to enumerate her grandkids.
It's still early, and he has a long way to go, but I hope and pray he will take the wheel and enjoy the journey to wherever his heart may lead him. I also like to think that our amazing angel (Mom) would be there to guide him every step of the way.
All photos are my own. 23042025/12:59ph
