Paalam at salamat, Pres.Cory!

I've been meaning to write about President Corazon Aquino since her death but doesn't know where to start. I am deeply saddened of her passing, it's as if I am also feeling the grief of her family. Since the death of my co-worker and then Michael Jackson I noticed how very painful it is for me to hear news about people's death ( even if they are not that close to me. ) My sympathy always goes to the family they have left behind...maybe it's because I know how to lose someone you care about.

I am happy for Pres. Aquino, for she is in heaven now. She was granted a peaceful death and I think it was really what her family wanted. I am also overwhelmed by the vast number of people who really loves her, there was an outpouring of support everywhere...television, Internet, and hey even on a program such as this you can find the symbol of the yellow ribbon.

I watched Kris Aquino on television, reiterating the events since her mom was hospitalized. I can't help but cry. Just like my daughter's passing, we thought we are prepared, but when the time came to let go it was really difficult. At first, I thought I can handle the pain...but after the chaos, after all my family and friends who paid respect go and went back to their respective lives, that's the time it all sinked in. That no matter what support they give you, you still have to go through the pain alone. You have to acknowledge it to know it is there. And the hardest part about it, you keep missing that person everyday more and more. It will never stop.

I remember when I was still under the observation of my doctor...she explained to me the five stages of grief. First is you deny it. And then there's anger after a while you bargain until you feel the numbness and go through the depression stage. You are considered strong if you have reach the last stage which is acceptance.

I always asked myself what stage I am in now. Although sometimes I say I have come to accept it, I still always go back to number 3 or number 1. I never believed in fairytales and magic lamps but when I lost her, I always wished for a genie to grant me a wish and I still hoped for a happy ending. Sometimes, I hold on to sanity because it is the only thing that is real...the love of my family and the support of my friends.

Like what Pres. Cory said, everything happens for a reason, you always have to look at the brighter side. And I am holding on to that, to help me going. Thanks Pres. Cory, may you rest in peace.

To the Aquino family, condolence.

Thanks squre pants for the picture of Cory.