Just when I thought I was finally coming to grasp with my grief, here comes another unfortunate event that shook me & made me sad and pensive all over again, huhu.

Kap & I were in Nagoya, on our 3rd day actually, when I received a message from Alex, saying our friend Maimai passed away. </3

Alex & Maimai were part of the “kawan” or bible study group that pastor Padim Israel headed & ministered as part of the Bread from Heaven mission.

Before CCF, we went to BFH in P’que for many years. The giblings always went with us to church every Sunday & practically grew up in Bread.

Kap & I were part of this particular kawan & have gotten close to the couples in the group. They know our children intimately just as we know theirs. I am even ninang sa binyag to 4 kawan babies from our church.

Through the years, we have lost touch when we scattered to different churches na. But on some occasions, we would see each other & it’s like the years just disappeared. I guess that’s how true friendship is – one that has stood the test. No matter the time & distance, when you see each other again, the heart simply knows.

When my brother died, Mai was one of those who condoled & consoled. I will never forget how, in time if need, they are ALWAYS there to quietly support..

Maimai is such a jolly & wonderful person. She always had a smile on, and she exuded with such light & positivity that you can really see God’s presence in her life. Her beaming smile is what I would miss the most.

Mai is survived by Mou, her husband, and Micaela, their only child.

I told the kids about Maimai’s sudden passing & they immediately panicked and scheduled me for a blood chem & pelvic ultrasound. I guess when death comes in succession, it becomes a little bit too real. :'( Thankfully, we only found some small myomas & polyps which at the moment, are non-life-threatening.

Lately, I’ve been extra clingy, more than the usual clinginess. Every opportunity I can spend with my family, I impose myself on them like it or not. At my age & with my health issues, I know death is not far behind. And I want to spend every possible moment with the ones I love.

I just hope & pray that God will give me a little more years until the siblings are self-sufficient & they don’t need their mommy as much anymore. Just until they all finish their Medical Fellowship journey at least. Only then will my heart be at peace.

Lord, I’m so very very sad. Please, when will my heart ever heal? :'(

Rest In Peace & bask in God’s loving embrace my dearest Mai. Thank you for the years for love & friendship. ‘Til we meet again.

PS: On this Sunday’s service by Peter Tanchi Jr., he asked the congregation – If it were your final day on earth, what would your last words be?

Mine is: Thank you fam for loving me, and for making me so very happy. No regrets, you guys complete me. <3