IT'S THE SMALL THINGS

Last Thursday, May 18, we celebrated the birthday anniversary of our family matriarch, Consuelo “Chito” Madrigal. Earlier this week, in Naga, we finally had a proper launch of the short biography cum memoire I wrote during the pandemic featuring her. As I was explaining my writing process to the audience, and I was answering the numerous questions they had for me, I could not help but reminisce. It was an emotional morning – in a good and happy way. One that brought me back to my yester years, and dare I say, glory days.
If there is anything I can tell you, as cliché as it sounds, it is to make the most out of every moment with your loved ones because when they are gone, these memories are what you will keep in your heart forever, and will turn to on the gloomiest of days. Never take for granted the time they want to spend with you because you will look back one day and hope you spent that extra minute, extra hour, extra day. Many things in life are fleeting, but memories are priceless, timeless and forever.
Someone asked me what piece of advice I have for those who are aspiring to write a book as well. To be honest, I found it quite awkward to answer given that it is my first published work. But if I were to take into account this column, and the multitude of topics I have covered through the years, it would be to always be authentic – be true to yourself, and your voice. Never succumb to the pressure of others, or a fad. At the end of the day, your audience knows your truth, and the following you will gain will be much more relatable and substantial.
Lastly, while we will never get over a loss in our lifetime, we learn to move on and survive. Open your hearts to the notion that love will only evolve, but it will never leave – at least those that we truly loved. And in learning to adapt to the change brought about by loss, and in the evolution of love comes an enlightened place where you will re-discover yourself, and an inner strength you may have never known to exist. Open your hearts, and open your mind. And always remember, “The ones who truly love you will never say goodbye.”