Remembering
Atty. Gamaliel Iturralde Rondario
Beloved Son, Husband, Father and Friend
September 28 1943 - May 12, 1988
He was only 45.
It's been 18 years since my father passed away. I don't really remember much from him. If it weren't for pictures and the stories random people share, out of pity that I don't have any, I would never know him or anything about him.
I was only 2 years old when he met our Maker. And there is not one day that goes by that I don't think about the kind of life I'd be living had he lived. Cancer has stolen a lot of my family members' lives. My beloved Grandfather, Grandmother, countless Uncles and Aunts all died (different kinds) of Cancer. My Father battled Esophagus Cancer for 3 years.
He was a lovely man. Incredibly smart, my aunts would often tell me he was their "thesis-God" after he made possible for all their thesis to score aces. He had the same passion for people and could have very well won when he ran for Mayor in our town, only that he withdrew when he was diagnosed. He was a gifted writer and as my mom puts it, I take after him.
My mom says that during times when I was too difficult to handle, she'd look at me -wanting to spank or scold me- and just.. couldn't. This happened plenty of times and it was only when I turned 20 that she explained to me why. She said she saw so much of my Father in me and she didn't think it was possible for her to hurt or even stand getting mad at someone who reminded her so much of that one and only person she's ever loved.
I have the best mom, I know.
That's why I never really felt like I was deprived of anything. Growing up, I had everything I needed and wanted. She never made me feel like my sister and I was losing out on anything by her being a single parent. I also had my Grandfather, or Lolo as we call our grandfathers here, to fill in that father figure I lost. He, along with my mom, was my hero. But that's another story, for another entry, another day.
Today, I celebrate the day my Father finally sought the Peace he deserved. He was an amazing man and growing up not knowing him indeed was a shame but knowing he was suffering the way he was with cancer, I'd take his pain-free life Up There, any day.
As I turn 21 on September 28 this year, I can't help but think how different my life could have been had my dad been alive.. But quite honestly, as I look back at the past 18 years I've lived without him, I realize God must have taken my Dad when he did, only because He knew even without him, I'd turn out just fine.
And yes, my Father and I share the same birthday. That's why I always feel somehow connected with him and I know, wherever he is and whenever we'd meet again, I know I'll always be my daddy's little girl.
Beloved Son, Husband, Father and Friend
September 28 1943 - May 12, 1988
He was only 45.
It's been 18 years since my father passed away. I don't really remember much from him. If it weren't for pictures and the stories random people share, out of pity that I don't have any, I would never know him or anything about him.
I was only 2 years old when he met our Maker. And there is not one day that goes by that I don't think about the kind of life I'd be living had he lived. Cancer has stolen a lot of my family members' lives. My beloved Grandfather, Grandmother, countless Uncles and Aunts all died (different kinds) of Cancer. My Father battled Esophagus Cancer for 3 years.
He was a lovely man. Incredibly smart, my aunts would often tell me he was their "thesis-God" after he made possible for all their thesis to score aces. He had the same passion for people and could have very well won when he ran for Mayor in our town, only that he withdrew when he was diagnosed. He was a gifted writer and as my mom puts it, I take after him.
My mom says that during times when I was too difficult to handle, she'd look at me -wanting to spank or scold me- and just.. couldn't. This happened plenty of times and it was only when I turned 20 that she explained to me why. She said she saw so much of my Father in me and she didn't think it was possible for her to hurt or even stand getting mad at someone who reminded her so much of that one and only person she's ever loved.
I have the best mom, I know.
That's why I never really felt like I was deprived of anything. Growing up, I had everything I needed and wanted. She never made me feel like my sister and I was losing out on anything by her being a single parent. I also had my Grandfather, or Lolo as we call our grandfathers here, to fill in that father figure I lost. He, along with my mom, was my hero. But that's another story, for another entry, another day.
Today, I celebrate the day my Father finally sought the Peace he deserved. He was an amazing man and growing up not knowing him indeed was a shame but knowing he was suffering the way he was with cancer, I'd take his pain-free life Up There, any day.
As I turn 21 on September 28 this year, I can't help but think how different my life could have been had my dad been alive.. But quite honestly, as I look back at the past 18 years I've lived without him, I realize God must have taken my Dad when he did, only because He knew even without him, I'd turn out just fine.
And yes, my Father and I share the same birthday. That's why I always feel somehow connected with him and I know, wherever he is and whenever we'd meet again, I know I'll always be my daddy's little girl.
2 Comments:
Ces,
Even though you didn't get the opportunity to spend time with your father, and having known you for only a sort time, I'm sure he'd be so proud of the Lady you have become.
love aleks xox
and i'm sure my dad'll give me a nice pat on the back for being so wise in choosing great friends, like you.
i'm also sure both our dads are smiling down on us, with beers on their hands toasting to celebrate the great friendship we have.
love you kiddo :-)
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