In Memoriam...

Where to start? I have lots to write about, but tonight I am having one of those insomnia nights thinking... thinking... of many things.

Today I spent 3 hours playing badminton with my friends from Tembeling. And there were a couple of new faces around who joined in to play. One of them seemed familiar and I found out that she also studied in the same university as I did. Then she asked me, do you know Diocelle? And I said affirmatively, "But of course!"

Then I heard the unexpected. A few months back I have heard the same two words, "Wala Na". And today's seemed like an echo of that moment in the past, but the silence that ensued meant only one thing. Another friend has just succumbed to lupus.

I remember the last time I saw and talked to her was over coffee at Cafe Ecila in Ayala. She lent me an ear and gave me words of comfort and of wisdom. Those were words from someone who has braved one of the greatest heartaches that I have known to date to someone like me who has just experienced his first nip. She was wearing red and we parted ways with her telling me to just hold on and know that it will all be alright. And she said that with much confidence like she already knew what the outcome would be. And so today, I say, "Thank you!" Yes, I have come through.

I will always remember her as one person who believed much in love. I have seen her tears brought about by forbidden love. I have seen her smiles whenever her hearts desires are met in full. And be it win or lose, the manner in which a person perseveres against the odds is what defines her character.

Dii, you will be missed.