In Memoriam

We lost great pillars in Philippine Literature this week. I have never met these women in person, and now I will never get a chance to meet them in this life-time. Just like every reader who came across their work and opened their eyes to the world (I read their works during my most impressionable phase), these inevitable events will always stir deep sadness. Despite all that, I think it's more important to magnify my gratefulness. I'm very grateful because they shared so much of their lives to writing. Like their beautiful poems and stories, I can only imagine that they lived such rich lives.

Thank you, Ma'am Kerima Polotan-Tuvera, for your poignant and socially relevant stories. I bought a copy of your book when I was 13 and grew fond of it. Sorry I wasn't able to take care of it well. Somebody stole my copy of your book when I was in college. I've been meaning to replace it since, but I guess I just got too busy. I'll get your book this week when I pass by UP Press. I will always remember how I read "The Virgin" with wide-eyed curiousity, and that short story titled "The Face of Virtue". Truly, virtue is more than just a word. I will never forget that. Little did I know you were already teaching me how to be a strong and self-reliant woman. Thank you, thank you.

Thank you, Ma'am Edith Tiempo, for sharing golden realizations in your life through your poems and stories. I came across your works back in college, but I was only able to do close readings of your poems this semester in Prof. J. Neil Garcia's class. I will never forget the poem "Bonsai" and how you told us that all love can be scaled down to a cupped hand's size. You are such an inspiration not just to writers, but to everyone who believes in living and loving with all your heart. Thank you for sharing your poems, your life, to the world.

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It's strange how we all grieve when great writers pass away. It's as if we lost long-time friends. In this case, I feel like I lost literary mothers-- a fictionist, and a great poet. 

Nevertheless, we shouldn't stop at grieving. Let's celebrate their beautiful lives. I know their well-crafted poems and stories will live on and continue to influence the youth just as it has touched mine. Again, I am truly grateful. Thank you.


May you both rest peacefully well.