JAN. 31, 2014 - RHYMES FOR MY SISTERS

                        Lourding

Your memory will be to me truly timeless
Because you represent the best a sister can be
So kind, thoughtful which matches
That of a protector, a guardian, by decree.

As a child, oh, I remember so fully well
You believed in me and encouraged me to excel
Repeatedly said good looks hardly count at all
Success in life depends on brains and heart's core.

It was your inspiration that overwhelmed me
Pushed me to exert every ion of energy
To cast the "ugly duckling syndrome" I was in
And turn odds to my favor at every school scene.

Modest ad humble always ready to please 
Even those who teased the young and old
Often chosen "Reyna Elena" in May Flower Feasts
I was proud of you and though shy became bold.

Your piety was notably fervent and strong
Even thought of spending life as a cloistered nun
But God's ways are for the good of the throng
The world gained from your treasure trove of a clan.

The life you lived was worthy to emulate
True love and commitment untold patience you bore
Complete trust in God no matter what it takes
Lessons I learned from the way you did each chore.

So, to you, Lourding, goes my profound thanks
For a job well done to our Father's delight
Now you reap the rewards you deserve from the ranks
In heavenly bliss of song, praise and eternal light!


                                     XXXXX



                         GLORY

Your name speaks so much who you really are
God's special child who spreads His radiance around
Always ready to give counsel which is above par
In matters of life's puzzles your knowledge abounds.

But the field you deeply explored and shared more
Is in the medical realm to the wonder of all
Many seek  your help like a patient to a doctor
For an illness herself or for a sick child to succor.

Your skill in numbers is amazingly great
So recognized since your high school days
You breezed through algebraic equations at stake
That thrilled teachers, classmates, sibling's maze.

Glory, you exemplify the best of a mother's love
To the nth degree so constant and unfailing
The patience you have parallels that of Job
A gift you remarkably keep on bearing.

Give without counting the cost is a saint's advice
Concerns more than money which some believe
Unselfish sharing of one's time is more than twice
The blessing to those around you in dire need.

You helped my children during their growing-up years
When my career required many conferences abroad
You acted as overseer, allayed their fears
My profound gratitude to you is at optimum mode.

Then there was your benevolent sister act
You extended to me to acquire our first real estate
Our funds were low impossible to execute a contract
It was your strategy that carried my family to the gate.

God's incomprehensible way will fill the gap
In our expression of gratitude to you as well as of others
When the time comes, your shoulders, Jesus will tap
And with open arms say, "Come in, rejoice with my Mother!"


                               XXXXX