Liberation

Liberation…

from pain…

from suffering…

This was our initial reaction when our sister Jovy, Obet to us, passed away on June 5. She left us after an almost two-month hospitalization due to a third stroke on the very day her estranged husband died. It was a double whammy for their children. It was a tough test of relentlessness in faith for all of us.

Growing up in a family where reason often overrules emotions, my two sisters, nieces and I analyzed the situation while Obet's condition deteriorated. Thus, when the eldest daughter relayed to us her demise, we let out whatever cooped up feelings we had on those days that she was in coma. We were prepared. 

Looked like Obet picked June 5 for her final exit so we would not forget it. This date is before her eldest son's birthday and two days away from our Mama's death anniversary. 

Ironically, it's in mourning that we siblings would be reunited. All of us were present on the last night of Obet's wake which was held in their Canaman, Camarines Sur residence. 

This was a rarest of the rare moments because the last time when we were complete was in this  photo, taken in May 2006 during our reunion in Bicol. 

This could have been replicated in April 2015 had our eldest sister come earlier to the venue. 

For us, Obet's death is a reminder to always have a deeper appreciation of life. Seize the day, treasure your loved ones and fearlessly chase whatever dreams you have set for yourself! Olen, our eldest sister, and I amplified this when we delivered our respective eulogy for Obet on June 12, Independence Day. 

I know we would be missing our sister’s presence in our once in a blue moon family gatherings. Known to be a good cook and baker, she was a permanent fixture in the kitchen. Industriousness is Obet. Obet is industriousness. 

On the other hand, many might have misjudged us to be void of this emotion, the grieving, had I posted these snaps on social media. You see, during deaths in our family, our chosen coping strategy would help us bear even the most extreme sadness. 

Just like us, our sister had imperfections. Yet, we are proud of what Obet has accomplished despite being a single mother for more than two decades until her death. Convincingly, she has shown to the world that having no husband at her side is not a deterrent to raising successful children. 

With Obet's eldest son, Alexis Joel

With Obet's youngest son, Moses

As her youngest sister, fellow educator and doppelganger (spookily looking like her!), I know marriage did not fulfill Obet's certain expectations; however, she was feisty and brave to face all the challenges and adversity head-on. After all, it's DNA. Surely, our parents happily welcomed Obet in heaven and patted her on her back. 

Obet, I know you're at peace now. But...please allow us, especially Mo, to ease this feeling of longing as we all go through the stages of grief.