I’m the type of person who doesn’t really care about her birthday. Though I find happiness in other people’s celebrative mood on their natal day, I consider mine as nothing special but a time to remember the exact month, day and year I was born. It’s the only way to have a basis on how long you’ve been walking on God’s Earth and how much more you have to live your life to the best.
The usual ‘birthday’ events happened. I treated my family to a heavy lunch of Barrio Fiesta Mama Chit’s package. It’s a one ‘bilao’ package consisted of various Filipino cuisine and delicacies. My dad and sister are big fans of Filipino and Chinese dishes so I knew they would enjoy it and I was right.
A few hours after the big lunch, my boyfriend called with bad news.
His lola had been in the hospital for almost a month now and the doctor just told them that lola’s days were numbered and it was only a matter of time before she altogether say goodbye.
The news saddened me a lot. I was reminded how my grandmother looked like when she died in our house. I remembered how my mother came into my room and informed me that my grandma was dead. She was calm but her eyes were in a state of shock and somehow surprise. Despite all the medicines and all the care, it wasn’t enough to keep Grandma with us. I remembered my dad being quiet and calm all the time but there was deep sadness in him being reminded that the only parent he had left has already left him too.
Now, the same thing will happen again. This time, to my boyfriend whom I trust and to his family I have come to be a part off.
Last Sunday, my boyfriend took me to Megamall since I haven’t been there for a long time. Despite the cloud of impending death, we took our time window shopping then eating pizza and pasta in his favorite “Yellow Cab”. It was my birthday treat to him. It was a temporary time of solace yet being together to ease off the burden of what we knew will happen.
By 3PM, we agreed to go to the hospital so I could see Lola before the end. We arrived with a pastor praying over Lola and the scene almost made me cry.
On the bed was lola, sleeping soundly, with many tubes connected to her. Around Lola were her children, their children’s children, one of her siblings and friends. All were sniffling, wiping their tears and gently kissing her forehead. After the prayer, the room filled with hushed whispers of discussions of work, life and everything under the sun. It was like a moment to be together with a loved one before the end and everyone was helping each other ease off the burden and be prepared.
This year may not be the most jovial celebration anyone could think of. It may not be a joyous celebration for me but it is something I will remember for a long time.
Lola, I’m just here. I may not be the most religious person in the world. For you, I pray that you peacefully gain eternal peace.
