Beyond our sight: No more pain

I have sad news to share: our uncle — a very close companion of our father — passed away last night. He was admitted to the hospital last week because he was feeling weak. According to my older brother Lito, he seemed to have gained strength after a few days and we believed he was getting better. Then, unexpectedly, he weakened again.  Yesterday our cousin called and urged us to bring our father to the hospital, because it seemed our uncle might hardly be holding on; his breathing was still ongoing but tenuous. We arrived at the hospital around 7 pm and gathered together with relatives, sharing stories and memories. My father kept speaking, but no response from uncle. At 8 pm, his breathing suddenly stopped and we were all alarmed. After about ten seconds, he started breathing again—but much more slowly and faintly. His breathing gradually weakened until he no longer drew another breath.  We called the nurse, who assessed the situation and then informed us that the doctor would be called for the final evaluation. At 8:10 pm the doctor declared that our uncle had passed away. It seems as though our uncle was really waiting for the visit of our father, because by the time he arrived the uncle’s breathing stopped and he passed. The loss of our uncle is deeply painful because he was such an important part of our father’s life — one of his dearest brother and companions. But we know that death is something we cannot stop. There comes a time for all of us when we must depart from this world. And although this truth does not comfort the ache, it brings a thoughtful reminder of life’s fragility.  What is important now is for us to pause, reflect, and carry out what matters most. We should take heart in confessing our mistakes, asking forgiveness from those we have hurt, and seeking forgiveness from those whom we have wronged. We should not wait until that final moment when our time is almost up to say “I’m sorry” or “please forgive me.” It is far better to live this life unburdened by guilt or regret, free from the heavy weight of unfinished reconciliation pressed upon our hearts. Let us strive to live well now, while we still can. Let us grow stronger in kindness, in humility, and in love for one another. If there are things, we have done that caused hurt or pain, let us courageously face them and seek restoration. Then we can truly enjoy our time here in this world with lighter hearts, clearer consciences, and deeper connections. Uncle, your journey continues in a place beyond our sight. You may no longer be here in the world we share, yet you will always remain in our hearts. The memories we hold, the stories we tell, the laughter we shared — all of these keep you alive in us. You were part of our father’s strength and you will not be forgotten.  Rest in peace, dear uncle — thank you for what you were to us, thank you for the love, the companionship especially to our father. Although you have left this world, your presence remains. We carry you with us, deeply in our hearts, always.