Marye, just a year older than Kimi, offered safety, succor and shelter to my daughter at a difficult phase in her pregnancy. My gratitude to people like Marye and the assurances of my daughter's other friends that they are 100 percent behind Kimi's decision to be a solo parent is boundless.
While she was between jobs, Marye came to my aid in the summer of 2010. I needed a research assistant for a project. Together we searched for copies of old reportage and personal essays at the Lopez Memorial Museum in Pasig. She encoded the ones I had written from pre-Internet years as we tried and succeeded in meeting the deadline for a book for a university press. Once that book is out, that will be my youngest baby on my 56th year.
That Marye is only turning 27 and Kimi 26 belie the fact how wise these two friends have grown. They're two old souls teaching their elders how to evolve further into humane human beings. Brava, Kimi and Marye. International Women's Month is made for you.
I once saw a poster in, of all places, a toilet. The message was: "Be an angel. Do random acts of kindness."
If there are angels among us, Marye must be one of them.What a wonderful world, indeed.
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Monday, March 28, 2011
Dear Mykonos,
Any day or minute from now, you might already show up, kick your way out into this wonderful world. And when you do, your momma, her relatives and friends will also be there to welcome you. Do not be surprised how much people will be cramped in a room, eager to see you.
With everything that's happening in the world right now - the earthquakes across the world, particularly the one in Japan, the Libyan revolution, Atom and Patty's breakup, etc. - you might think it's quite an inappropriate time to be born. No. There's no such thing as appropriate or inappropriate time when it comes to giving birth. Your mother carried you in her womb for almost 9 months now, she made a choice, and that choice is you. There's nothing untimely about that.
I want to tell you that it has not been an easy road for your Nanay. The first few months was an emotional roller coaster where hormones were not even to be blamed. She must have cried like she never cried before, spent many nights drifting from one place to another to protect you and herself from unkind thoughts and words. But despite the stress, all the negativity emanating around her, your mother chose to be strong and happy for your sake. This you must always remember: your welfare will always comes first. Priorities have shifted. You are now on top of that list.
In a time where it's easier to give in to adversities and hate, your mother has stood her ground, remained strong, kind and forgiving. So, do not be surprised if you find out that a lot of people love your mother. Your Nanay Kimi is one of the kindest and most generous persons I've known in my life. I am lucky to have her as a friend. Imagine how lucky you will be, too, to have her on your side at all times.
When you're ready to come out, I hope you won't give your mother a hard time. I wish you a swift and easy passage from your little watery world to the arms of the doctor. I hope you cry as loud as you can, move your feet and hands as if there's no tomorrow.
Oh, the anticipation, the excitement of your coming is making us all antsy. Little-mango-no-more, I can't wait to meet and spoil you.
Love,
Tita Marye
Photo of Marye posing by my daughter's swollen belly taken by JUNE TAGUIWALO
Original post can be found at www.tumatakbongpagong.blogspot.com
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