Paalam, Tita Cory

I woke up this morning hearing the news that Former President Corazon Aquino passed away at 3:18AM. My mom's radio was tuned in to an AM station. Somehow, it was as if someone close to me or my family passed away. But then on the brighter side, the pain that was caused by her illness has ended and now she joins her creator in heaven.

The nation mourns her passing. She was the brave woman who fought for Philippine democracy, at the time when it seemed impossible. Now, she will be reunited with her husband Ninoy.

Tita Cory lived a full life. She was well educated, had a happy family life, became President and has touched the lives of many. She had a strong faith in God. And an epitome of true grace under pressure.

Life indeed is short. Tita Cory had no regrets in the way she lived her life. She was so blessed and she made good use of these blessings. She was well loved. Hundreds if not thousands offered prayers for her. I wish I would be able to live a full life too, I wish I would always be reminded of how blessed I am, I wish that when the time comes for me to say goodbye, people would also remember me with kind words and fond memories.

Here's a song that's been playing on the AM radio today. It was actually written by Ninoy Aquino for his beloved wife, which was sung by Jose Mari Chan years after. You can see that they really loved each other. Tita Cory was lucky to have a husband who loved and appreciated her so much.

I have fallen in love

With the same woman three times

In a day spanning nineteen years

Of tearful joys and joyful tears.

I loved her first when she was young

Enchanting and vibrant, eternally new

She was brilliant, fragrant and cool

As the morning dew.

I fell in love with her the second time

When first she bore her child and mine

Always by my side, the source of my strength

Helping to turn the tide.

But there were candles to burn

The world was my concern

While our home was her domain

And the people were mine

While the children were hers to maintain.

So it was in those eighteen years and a day

Till I was detained

Forced in prison to stay.

Suddenly she’s our sole support

Source of comfort

Our wellspring of hope

On her shoulders fell the burden of life.

I fell in love again

With the same woman the third time

Looming from the battle

Her courage will never fade.

Amidst the hardships she has remained

Undaunted and unafraid

She is calm, composed

She is God’s lovely maid.