It was the time of disquiet then; the protest movement against the dictatorship intensified in many parts of the country after the death of Ninoy Aquino. I know during that time that I shall be taking a different path from the ones chosen by many, including my siblings and friends, who graduated from La Salle. I left the comfort and familiarity of my home, became an organizer in the youth and student movement, preparing myself to working with people in the margins in the countryside. I left home, one day in October, leaving a letter of thanks and expressing my gratefulness to my parents for being there for my siblings and me from the very beginning. I know, in my heart, that one day my parents would be able to accept me, their activist daughter.
So many things happened after I left home.I learned the value of hard work, sacrifice and commitment during those days. I realized how much I missed them when I watched the stars at night and wonder how they are, praying that they know in their hearts that I love them so much.
It was when I saw my mother in Morayta right before a protest rally held in Mendiola, that I learned the depth of my mother's love. I learned that she tried to look for me at protest marches, watching from the streets, going to the places I have been to, praying and hoping that we may see each other again.
We both cried after seeing each other.
I am writing this to remember a woman, who gave me the love that she could give, who went with me at a protest concert at St. Theresa's College,who decided to look for me one day at Morayta, knowing that she may possibly see me in the protest march.
I am writing this to pay homage to a woman, who may not be the perfect mother for me, but who I've learned what grit and determination is.
I love you, Nanay and know that I am sharing the lessons of the memories you left with your grandchildren. Praying for you on your birthday.
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| Nanay |
