As a commonly said..."No one leave the world alive"...true! But looking at another angle...when deep emotion is at stake; it is challenging to get our head wrap around it.
Peping, I can't honestly say, that it will get better, but I know it will get a little easier as time goes by. You lost a wife, your children and grandchildren; lost a mother/grandmother; WE lost a beloved friend. Gloria was a wonderful person, who added so much to every life she touched. Truly...Gloria was an extraordinary woman.
I met Gloria in 1983, when the family visited us here in North Vancouver the first time, after they moved to Calgary. Still few feet away...she was already beaming with contagious smile...giving us delight as we were hugging. Gloria's cheerfulness, exudes jubilance and sincerity. During this visit, Gloria, talked about their new life in Calgary, her 2 sons at that time (because Isabel came along in 85). How she love to have us moving to Calgary too. That she and my wife would grow old together. etc. Truly...Gloria is an exceptional woman!
In 1986 we visited the family in Calgary... One line that stuck to my wife's mind and I; is when Peping said that they were running out of groceries and not enough cash to replenish the fridge...sheepishly with that usual smile' Gloria has, said, "kayud uli bae" we all laughed. Gloria has the ability to ride along life's challenges...she did it with lighter stride but with full of hope. She managed to look after a growing kids of her own and blended family. Truly...Gloria is a remarkable woman!
Few more visits with us, after Isabel came along. When the 2 boys were at their musical curiousity. PJ and JP were both apt to their musical talent; and perform in Richmond few times. As a mother, Gloria was always happy but humble to talked about her sons' musical and her daughter Isabel's piano and ballet , interests. As a mother, she constantly encouraged her children and others to pursue their positive diversion. Gloria is an inspirational mother and friend.
We all experienced some trying moments in our married life. Married for almost 45 years, Peping and Gloria are no exception; like everyone of us, they experienced vulnerability. However, without any ounce of doubt, they always get over their differences. Love for each other always prevailed. As Gloria said once..."I know I am a wonderful and loving wife and mother; but Peping is supportive, loving husband and father...a good provider. For the last 2 years while Gloria was sick, Peping and the family were always been there for their mother Gloria.
As Helen Keller said:
"What we have once enjoyed and deeply loved, we can never lose, for all we love deeply becomes part of us.
Tina and I understand how you feel right now, emotionally...rest assured that Gloria's death is not in vain. Her legacy remains and live with us forever. Our thoughts and prayer to everyone in the family and our Heartfelt Condolences.
Love and Prayer
Ninong Behl and Ninang Tina
