My father, the hero

Its a few hours after Father’s Day (here in the Philippines), and I finally feel good enough to blog. I caught one of those 48-hour bugs (flu-like symptoms with colds and cough), but I feel much better after sleeping for about a day and a half, on and off. I wasn’t able to go to my parents’ house tonight as planned, which means I missed out on the celebratory dinner prepared by my brother, chef Ruel.

While in bed, recuperating, I went through old family photos in my hard drive and couldn’t help but be thankful. Even though my family has experienced a lot of ups and downs, my parents continue to be there for us no matter what. This is something worth more than anything in the world–that feeling of security that if something happens, good or bad, my family will always be there for support and guidance. I certainly took this for granted while growing up. I never even thought twice about it. But now that I am married, and feel responsibilities weighing down on me and Carlos, I appreciate my family. And somehow, their presence alone is enough.

I can’t even begin to imagine how our family would cope if we had lost my dad. Papa had a stroke and a heart attack in Christmas 2010, and needed a quadruple heart bypass to survive. It was the worst time of my life, to see my father go through all this and see him so weak. He has always been the strongest, smartest and most reliable man in my life. He was never sick, and he always took care of everything. This time, he was the one who needed our care. And the thought that we could actually lose him scared me. It taught me to value life, and treasure the people I love.

Papa is all better now with his new heart, but the lesson stuck. Life is too short. We can’t take people for granted, especially our parents.

To my papa, I want you to know how important you are in my life. You are my rock, and my hero. I have always looked up to you, and I aspire to be the best I can be to make you proud. You and Mama. I will always remember the lessons you taught me and the time we spent together. Happy father’s day! You are the best father anyone could ask for. I love you.

My dad taking my sister Wendy and I out for a stroll. I’m the baby in the photo, by the way.