The Aquino family holds a special place in my heart. When i was little, perhaps 5 years of age, the late Philippine Senator, Governor of Tarlac, Benigno 'Ninoy' Aquino, Jr. (11/27/32-8/21/83) visited our small city in the Philippines called Fabrica City. At that time he was campaigning for his seat in the Senate during the election. I can vividly remember that there was a very long line of cars (stationary) with a large crowd of people to greet and meet Ninoy Aquino. What made it so memorable for me is because right at the moment my father took the pleasure of meeting him in person, my dad was holding me in his arms and handed me over to the arms of Ninoy so he could carry me. I could still remember up to this day how thrilled i was, as a child enjoying the sight of two men that very much enjoyed each other's company. What striked me the most was his character. Although i was just a child then i felt the humility of this man. Somehow from what i briefly observed at that young age, he was a well known person and had lots of money. Perhaps i instantly liked him because he was so much liked my own dad. I liked the sound of his voice, his smile, and his overall countenance.
Many years later, Ninoy Aquino was incarcerated and assassinated. And then Ninoy's wife came in the picture and became President Cory Aquino. And afterwards, President Cory's daughter Kris was added in the picture. For some reason the Aquino family reminds me of my own family. My father died unexpectedly, my mom took over for my dad to raise my brothers and sisters, and then i am the youngest of the children. But one big difference is that we are not wealthy like the Aquino family is.
I was listening to the eulogy for former Pres. Cory given by Kris, her daughter tonight and i had this big know on my throat when she spoke about her mom. Her mom's faith in God was just liked my mom's. She's a very prayerful woman just like my mom. The only thing that saddened me is that i did not hear anything about Jesus Christ in the whole oration. These two women lived their lives the way they believed in. Now, we can say that they already served their earthly lives and there is still hope ... we need to pray that they can come to faith in Jesus Christ. Faith in Christ alone.
Towards the end of the eulogy Kris mentioned that her mom left her and their family these last words, "Take care of each other" not just for their family but for the whole nation of the Philippines. I really like that. It's very simple and very compassionate. Just like what my mom told me a few days before she breathed her last breath here on earth.
The lessons we learn from other people. It's such a joy to just stand back and watch the LORD move. Be patient for GOD'S timing and endure in Christ's strength...
Psalm 46:10 says...
"Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the
nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."
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