The Remembrance of Strengthening Bonds: A Personal Eulogy
character building, perspectives
When I heard that my cousin’s Aunt had passed away, I felt a wave of sorrow for their loss. I reached out to express my condolences and, in the process, I was also reminded of the grief I experienced when my own grandmother passed away. I prayed that God would comfort their family during this difficult time, providing them with the strength they needed to move on.
Later that day, after church, I noticed a certain sadness in my cousin’s expression. I gently asked her how she was coping with her Aunt’s passing, then added a thoughtful question about her favorite memories with her. With a tearful smile, she began narrating.
Yvonne described the evolution of her communication with her Aunt, and how their relationship had developed over time. She emphasized the impact this connection had on her life, one that continues to resonate to this day. She recounts:
“Back in the early ’90s, getting a letter from my Aunt in Abu Dhabi was like hitting the jackpot! I’d wait with bated breath for each envelope—the blue and red stripes were the icing on the cake. She’d start by greeting me with my super quirky nickname, then spill all the tea on her life. At the end, she’d sign off with her sage advice, telling me to study hard and look after myself. It was like a warm hug in the form of a letter. These messages are still close to my heart, reminding me of the impact our communication had on my life.”
I pieced together from her letters that my Aunt worked as a personal maid for a Prince’s daughter. The most memorable photo was of the boss’s daughter, taken in Geneva, Switzerland. The girl was sitting in a fancy car, with her long hair flowing in the wind. My Aunt was part of the entourage when the family travelled to Switzerland. Our letters were full of stories, especially about food. Though she didn’t include treats in the letters, she sent “balikbayan boxes” packed with chocolates, treats and clothes. Whenever she came home for a break, my Aunt would plan beach outings for the family. These outings were super fun and memorable. My Aunt would make sure everyone had a blast and we’d always have a good time at the beach with her.
Photos of Yvonne
Looking back, those letter-filled days spark a wave of nostalgia. Receiving letters from my Aunt was like unwrapping a show of happiness and validation. The letters were like warm, fuzzy hugs—a source of comfort and assurance. They strengthened our bond, becoming a safe space where I could pour out my secrets and struggles. This special bond with my Aunt was unique, even though I was close to my other Aunts, too.
Though we shared some beautiful moments together, I can’t help but feel like I missed some opportunities. Our last meeting was two years ago. I remember praising her youthful looks and she chatted with me about healthy living. But I didn’t really delve into her life, her struggles, her past, or even how she was doing then. I was too hesitant to ask those probing questions that could have deepened our conversation. I wanted to know about her work, her experiences in other countries, how she was really doing. But I didn’t have the courage to bring them up. It still gnaws at me a bit.
As I mourn my Aunt’s passing, I’m overwhelmed with regret. We didn’t have the deep, meaningful conversations I wish we’d had. Hearing about her illness was a shock and I was devastated I hadn’t known earlier. If I could rewrite history, I’d have her healthy and strong, the way she should have been. Not asking about her life before she passed is a heavy burden on my heart. But through these stories of her kindness and thoughtfulness, I hope to honor her memory and celebrate her life in the best way I know how. I miss you, Aunt Melda, and will cherish your memory always. ♥♥♥
From my conversation with Yvonne, I learned a valuable lesson about communication in relationships. It’s essential to make time to talk to our loved ones, even when life gets busy or our minds are preoccupied. Reaching out to ask how they’re doing, sharing our care and appreciation, and letting them know that they matter to us—these are simple yet powerful acts of connection that can strengthen our bonds. It’s a reminder to cherish and prioritize the people we love before it’s too late, because the memories we create and the moments we share can last a lifetime.
I have shown you my confession; put my tears before you and in your book. Psalm 56:8
categories
- character building
- Christianity
- Culture and Tradition
- Educational
- Life Stories/ Personal Narratives
- narrative poem by Zerayn D.
- Perspectives (Personal Interpretations of Zerayn D.)
- poetry by Zerayn D.
- random tales
- skill-based learning
- Surrealistic Series of Zerayn D.
- Travel
- Uncategorized
- Zerayn's dailyprompt responses
- Zerayn's Journal of Feelings
Per-nal 
Leave a comment