Gabriel

I PROMISED to be kind while my mom and Ate Cherry are in town. So there will be no ishes and wehs in today’s column.

*****

My nephew Gabriel and his twin sister, Mayumi, were born prematurely at 6 months. Gabby, who was confined for three months in one of the Masonic hospitals in Chicago, Illinois, pulled through but Mayumi died 14 days after they were born. Gabby is now 3 turning 4 on December. He talks a lot, has started going to school and collects stones.

What follows is an entry in my journal dated December 16, 2008:

Darling Gabriel,

You have the name of an angel -- the very same angel who came unto Mama Mary to tell her that she has been chosen to bring to this world the man who will save mankind.

I just received word from your mom that you tolerated your surgery well. (In the course of Gabby’s 3 month stay in the hospital, he underwent 3 surgeries on his tummy and one on his lungs). I could not even fathom how your small frame took it but I realized the size of your body is nothing compared to that of your spirit.

Mayumi has passed on and with all the faith in my heart I know it was she, together with your Lolo Willy, who watched over you during your crucial procedure. You probably miss her already but will it comfort you, little one, if I tell you that Mayumi is now in a place where there is no pain?

You, on the other hand, have a nobler purpose to pursue here on earth. Only time will reveal your purpose, Gab, but with the constant guidance of your strong and loving parents, you will one day bring good news to those who need it.

Right now, let’s take time to thank our family and friends who have been praying for you. God will bless them as He has blessed you.

Your mom just texted me again. Our beloved Mayumi will be cremated and she wishes for the ashes of your sister to be buried alongside Lolo Willy one day. Mayumi, perhaps, is truly meant to be with your Lolo all along.

We can smile now, darling. And now we can say, even the worst nightmare is laced with the promise of dawn.

Love always, Tita Anne

*****

I first met Gabby ten days ago. I look at him and feel a profound gratitude for the gift of life. I look at him and think, “How can one not believe in miracles?” I look at all my nephews who give me so much joy and think, “It’s time to start having one of those.” Hahaha!