My Mommy Charing

MANILA, Philippines – Ceferino Mendoza Geraldez, a fine-looking gentleman, a lawyer by profession, Master of Laws graduate from the University of Sto. Tomas and the eldest of 12 children, met a lovely young lady named Rosario. The youngest of five sisters, Rosario Capili Buñales was a Fine Arts graduate of UP and played the piano. A great match it was and their friends lost no time in bringing Pino and Charing together. Who would have thought that at age 53 Pino would finally say goodbye to bachelorhood and say “I do” to 36-year-old Charing?

I loved watching my Papa and Mommy. Both of them lovingly cared for me when I was a very sickly child. How concerned they were to see their only child sick so often. Papa was a prayerful man and she prayed with him every day. She cared for Papa throughout the four years when he was sick and until he passed away.

 Mommy was such a simple woman — she did household chores and her other day-to-day activities with a smile. She made sure I knew everything she did — from cleaning the house to watering the plants in the garden, going to market, a little cooking, and lots more. She loved to fix herself up. Max Factor was her favorite brand and she would look so beautiful even if she would just be at home the whole day.

She would sketch me to keep me still and did my assignments that required drawings in school. We both loved to watch movies and I remember watching The Sound of Music twice because she loved it. 

When my husband, Gerry, was still courting me, she would always prepare him some snacks. She would also have a sewing box with her and she would start sewing while Gerry and I talked nearby. She did this every time Gerry visited. I never found out if Mommy stopped sewing by the time we got married.

Mommy was happiest taking care of her two grand daughters, Tina and Karen. If she were not around, I doubt if I would have found success in my corporate life. Mom loved to hear them call her “Lola Charing.”

Three years ago, Mommy suffered a stroke. She has remained bedridden and is fed by NGT. She looks at us with a blank stare. She does not show any sign of recognition nor does she respond to the things we say. I continue to talk to her, pray for her, tell her stories, let her listen to her favorite classical music and hug, embrace and kiss her as often as I can.

I am so blessed to still have with me my 97-year-old mom. I love you, Mommy!