I know that to most people, the memories of the past fifteen years since you left us now seem so distant. A lot of things have happened since. Life has moved on for most. There is even a whole new world out there that appears so alien to me now. However, I will always remember that fateful morning on a Thursday when you had left for our Lord’s garden. There were no time for goodbyes. Only a gaping hole that’s been so hard to fill. You had however gifted me with our daughter Sam who now takes care of me. She is quite a taskmaster, for she is made of much sterner stuff than I could ever be. Today, I can only wish for her a much better future than we had both ever imagined. Could you have ever envisaged Atty. Sam? And I know that she’ll be okay because you will be always somewhere there inside her. In many ways, she really takes after you. So results- oriented and driven to excel.

All I can think of today however, is one of gratitude. To thank you for all the love you had shared. For you have shown us what selfless love can truly be. They call it “agape” or love that is not sentimental and that which simply comes from being who you are. Thank you for your love, Mariel. We will always remember your great life especially on this day. You shall always be missed. We also ask for your prayers while we still journey through life. Please guide our Sammie always because she still needs you when facing up to life’s many travails.

We love you Mommy. You will always be in our hearts. Happy birthday in heaven. XOXO