“Some music makes us sadly mindful of a loved one who is no longer with us. Even in the sadness, don’t be afraid to hum along, for in so doing we realize that their song continues in us.”

2 years ago, my aunt was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer – at stage 4, I couldn’t believe at that time since she seemed to look normal and cheery as she always were. She would laugh out loud over a thrown joke, in her signature laugh. And everytime we go to her house in Bulacan, she would offer us cheese curls in cans or chocolates, for her husband, my uncle, works in a cruise ship and you know how balikbayans bring for treats or in Filipino “pasalubong”. I also loved going to their house because it’s so cozy, minimalist and neat ~ and my favourite! They loved dogs! I remember them having a cocker spaniel named “Duke”, and another spaniel which name, if I remember right, started with the letter M, and lastly a big labrador retriever. On summer vacation during holy week, we would go to Baliuag (her home town) to watch the famous procession of big saint statues after a long day of food feast.

It was a tough fight auntie, but I know you are resting in peace now. Thank you for the times we had, even the shortest moment.

“Worms and Angels” by Echobelly

“Here and now,
For you and I know,
True love is deathless,
These crumbling days are ending,
By my side,
Let’s walk in the garden,
We’ll sleep in the ivy,
We’ll be with the worms and angels.”