My Parents' Romance: Not Quite "Till Death Do Us Part"

May 4 was my parents' wedding anniversary. Incidentally, it was also my maternal grandparents' wedding anniversary. My parents purposely timed their wedding to coincide with my grandparents' wedding day. It was appropriate because both husbands turned out to be equally devoted and loving to their wives.

I was not able to write about this special day immediately because I have been afraid these past few days.

My Dad had passed away on the 19th of May last year. Just before May 4 this year, Mommy's condition deteriorated drastically. She is in our care at home, bedridden but, thankfully, not in pain. With the sudden downturn, though, I was afraid that something might happen on or around the significant date.

I can feel my Dad's presence as we care for my Mom. I know he will always be around, but especially while Mom is in this difficult stage.

Growing up, I was witness to how much he loved her. Mom has a temper and is not the easiest person to live with but he - on whom much of her tantrums were directed - was most patient toward her and most understanding of her moods.

Last year, Daddy already knew that Mommy's cancer was far advanced and had a poor prognosis. I feel that it was the reason why he refused to undergo dialysis. He said he was ready to go, and he wanted to do so peacefully at home. I felt that he did not want to be the one to stay behind. He could not bear seeing Mommy deteriorate.

We honored Daddy's wish and he showed us that there was nothing to fear as he faced his final days. It was a gift shared with his grandchildren, too.

I think Daddy also wanted to show Mommy the way. To prove to her that there is nothing to fear, especially because he had already stepped over the threshold first and is there to guide her through.

No, the vow they made on their wedding day was not quite fulfilled. Death may have parted them physically and temporarily, but their bond is far stronger.