Ode to Dad by Mary Borgaily

My father came to the Philippines from abroad when he was 16 to help in his family business. He was very intelligent, & although he only had a 6th grade education, he taught himself how to speak, read & write English, Spanish, & Tagalog. He had the most beautiful handwriting!

Everyone who met my father loved him. He was an honorable man, slow to anger & quick to forgive. He was a kind, sweet,  compassionate & generous man,  who worked countless hours to support his family.

My father was a devout Catholic, with a special devotion to the Sacred Heart. He distributed Communion during Mass. As a child I remember us gathering in front of a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes  to pray the rosary @ night.

My stepmother’s sister was a Carmelite nun in Naga city, & he loved and supported their monastery for 50 years.

My father’s health declined after he had a heart attack. The last time I spoke with him was on October 23, 2002. He had been in the ICU for a week due to heart failure. That day he was moved to a private room. I called him, & as soon as he heard my voice he started singing Happy Birthday to me.

I was so surprised… I said “Dad! You remembered my Birthday.” He said “Of course I remember. I will never forget your Birthday.” 5 days later my father went into cardiac arrest, & passed away on Nov. 3, 2002 @ the age of 79.

I miss his smile, his laughter, his hugs, & his unconditional love for his family. He was an amazing Dad.