My Parents' First Wedding Anniversary Without Papa

Oh boy, I know this year of 2013 will surely include a lot of firsts without Papa. First New Year without him. First Valentine's Day without him. First birthday of ours without him. First Mother's Day without him. But I know, for my Mama, the most painful would be their first wedding anniversary WITHOUT Papa.

Last May 19, 2013 was their 37th Wedding Anniversary. My Mama was in Leyte having some paperworks done with regards to the properties left by Papa. Ate Lita was also there to accompany her. My siblings and I were all here in Manila. We've decided to visit Papa's resting place and spend some time there for the occasion. Nothing grandiose whatsoever, as Mama plans to have another celebration when she gets back here in Manila. Nevertheless, we still decided to buy a cake to celebrate that day. Bringing a whole Goldilocks chocolate cake roll and a 2 Liter Coke zero to Heaven's Gate. Offering a prayer for Papa, greeting him and just had a good chit-chat with hubby and Kuya Eric. Solenn and Skylar also had fun playing with each other.

37 years of marriage is indeed something and we would want to honor them for being a good example in being true to the words uttered in front of God on their wedding day, "Till death do us part.". My parents' marriage was never a perfect one, as with any type of relationships. Their differences, age gap, decisions, preferences are just some of the few things that cause their numerous misunderstandings. But we grew up seeing them fight then reconcile. I've seen that they truly love each other, coz if they didn't, considering the fact that Papa has spent more time in Leyte than here in Manila, they wouldn't be as strong as the last time they were together. But their love for each other was what made them intact and what made our family overcome life's difficulties. It's just so sad that when my siblings and I are about to realize our dreams, Papa left us. I know Mama and Papa are both happy to see that all of us, including our spouses, having gained a good education and stable jobs, but it's something that still make my heart ache. I would still want to share my successes with them...  

When I greeted my mom through a text message, she replied that she talked to Papa and greeted him too. She said that Papa might be happy that she's there in Leyte, taking care of his farm and crops... I know she didn't magnify that painful feeling of celebrating that day without Papa around from now on... I know she was on tears. She's a strong woman, my mom, willing to move on with her life carrying that void in her heart.... "Till death do they part" indeed.