A Flower in God's Garden

I really missed the Flores de Mayo celebrations in our country. Our parish has been so busy that month; we didn't manage to have any floral offerings to Our Lady. One day in May, my wife was weeding out some decayed flowers from one of her plants. She gave me those which are still fresh. I decided to put them beneath a picture of Our Lady of Fatima in my study room as my own way of celebrating Flores de Mayo.

I am quite amazed that until now - deprived of water and nutrients - most of it is still in perfect shape.

I suddenly remembered a loved one who has been like that flower in more ways than one - Mommy Rosie. My late aunt was such a wonderful person. To the people around her, particularly her family, she always gave her whole self unconditionally. She was our 'takbuhan' whenever we were in financial constraints. For Mommy, it was always a "Yes".

She was often described as 'lagari' (saw) for her numerous travels from Kalookan (where she lived) to Gagalangin (where we lived) to Kawit, Cavite (home base of the Samaniegos). Wherever she goes, she brought loads of goodies - material, emotional, spiritual.

Mommy took pains in helping my mother, a single parent, raise us five siblings. During my High School graduation, she went up the stage to put on me the medal award for Religion. Instead of waiting for her to shake my hand, I took the opportunity to kiss her as though she was the awardee. For indeed, I won't get that honor without Mommy's love and good example.

We were greatly shocked when we heard the news that she was diagnosed with breast cancer. We used to see her as energetic and cheerful. As I watched the video shots of her last moments, Mommy calmly accepted her predicament. This brought to mind what she once told us, "Hindi ka bibigyan ng Diyos ng pagsubok na hindi mo kaya." ("God will not test you unless He knows that you can pass it.")

The flower beneath Mary's picture remind me of Mommy who until her last breath was full of love and hope in spite of her situation. She shared her life even if life was ebbing away.


The flower, by way, is called Rosalina - Mommy Rosie's real name.

29th June, Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, is her 9th Death Anniversary.

Mommy, your blossom and fragrance once filled our lives. May you continue to flourish in God's tender care in heaven.