A Journey of Loss and Love

​Eight years ago today, I was here in Saudi Arabia, thousands of miles away from home, when my phone rang early morning. It was one of those calls you never want to get. My sister was on the other end, and her voice broke as she told me that Dad had passed away. That moment knocked the wind out of me. I felt like the ground had been pulled from under my feet.
 
Dad was my hero. He wasn’t just the person who was my biggest fan or the one who held my hand whenever I was afraid; he was my go-to person for any problem, big or small. Losing him felt like losing my way in the world. Nothing seemed right without him, and everything reminded me of him- the memories we shared and the lessons he taught me. He was a man of integrity, kindness, and strength. He taught me the importance of hard work, honesty, and compassion. He showed me what it means to be a good person, and how we should strive every day to live up to the example he set.

​I remember holding his hands during my last visit, thinking how his tears fell when I left a month back, and wishing more than anything that I could hold his hand and hug him just one more time.
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The journey back home to the Philippines with my brother was the longest trip of my life. We didn’t talk much; we didn’t need to. We both knew the other’s pain too well. Each mile home was a step towards a reality I wasn’t ready to face—a world without Dad.

When we finally arrived, stepping into our neighborhood was like stepping into a different life. We entered the funeral house, which was full of people who loved Dad, all sharing stories about him. Tito Del told us about the time Dad and him were both young and they were chasing pretty girls. We all laughed through our tears. It was painful but beautiful to remember not just that we lost him, but how wonderfully he had lived.
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These memories, these shared laughs and tears, they keep Dad alive for us. Even though there’s this dad-shaped hole in my life, there’s also a treasure trove of moments like these that no one can take away. Every day, I try to live in a way that would make him proud. I hope he knows how much I miss him and how much I love him.
 
So today, I just want to say: Dad, thank you for every laugh, every lesson, and every moment. I miss you more than words can say, and I love you forever. You were the best dad anyone could ask for, and every day, I carry a part of you with me. I hope I’m making you proud and until next time we see each other again.