It was eerie-ly quiet, the streets of Quezon City. Elliptical Road was less dizzying. Quezon Avenue was clear and passable. It was All Saints' Day, November 1st.
I have not celebrated All Saints' Day in Manila for so many years, until yesterday. I went to visit my father's grave and those of other relatives days ahead. So yesterday, I stayed where my mother's body is interred.
Death in a family brings relatives and friends together. Cousin Nina and niece Minet, whom I haven't seen in ages came and so did Tia Sol, and cousin Baby.
"Maliit ka pa nuon," is often heard. "Ilan na ang anak mo, ang apo mo?" too.
"Lamay sa patay," or viewing as it is called in North America, is a unique practise we, Pinoys and also the Chinoys, have.
In the funeral house, I see beautiful and colorful Chinese decors in front of the chapel where a Chinoy is interred. There are Christian and Buddhist ceremonies going on almost every night.
I see food trays being brought continuously. Pinoys and Chinoys share the tradition of feeding their loved ones lavishly. In Canada, Pinoys don't lose this tradition.
During the viewing days, Pinoys feed the people who come along, and especially after the funeral.
My sister prepared a collage - pictures of our mother, with us, with her friends, with our father.
She's beautiful as ever. My Mom.
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