“Walking in Her Shoes”

More hours on the road than the hours spent at a destination must seem to have a different kind of meaning... perhaps it is the intention that seems to matter the most. My drive up to Michigan today was requested from one of my best friends whose mom is a fellow cancer fighter that I adore though and through. I remember visiting her just a couple years back- making the drive up to give some support while making the rounds to see other friends. Tita (Filipino for 'Aunt') Amor was right there to greet me- soft spoken, relatively short, but so kind and nurturing like any token Filipino mom. She of course had a full spread of food waiting when I arrived. “Did you eat?” she asked as she greeted me at the door. It didn’t matter if I had eaten... I wasn’t about to pass up some home cooked nom noms!

I remember her walk to the kitchen from the front door- almost a melodic cadence with her slippers- the kind of pattern that reflects a positive personality that is steady and yet deliberate. Wow there was a lot going on at that stove, but she wasn’t phased... like a world renowned drummer playing the most elaborate set. We had the best time together with her two daughters and her husband. And for the next several months, Tita Amor would send me the most thoughtful cards- encouraging me on my journey while sharing sentiments of her own. It is with solace to remember a special woman so loved by so many who passed this morning...

Just as I have shared in a previous journal entry... it is, at times, through loss that we can gain a little more perspective on a variety of things. What is important and meaningful, who is important and meaningful, and where do we need to be at any given moment may be part of that variety.

And now I am here, so grateful to be considered part of this family. This short visit allowed us celebrate Tita Amor with sharing memories, with what would appear to be an infinite meal, and with me sharing a song I’ve written to express how we loved Tita Amor in our own way.