It’s been almost a week to the day since our beloved Cory Aquino passed on.  Yet, I am still compelled to write this short piece if only to show my gratitude and profound respect for the person whom many Filipinos consider as the “mother of the nation” and the true icon of Philippine democracy.

So what makes Cory so special?  I think that from among the countless tributes, stories and anecdotes shared about the former president, what struck me the most was the reflection by one known columnist that she was different because among the many others who sought the country’s presidency – many even making this their lifelong goal and ambition -  this position was ironically given to her who actually did not seek it out – to her who actually was averse to the trappings of power and position from the very beginning.

Yes, such was the irony that was Cory.  By sacrificing her own personal preferences, she brought back the moral ascendancy to the highest position in the land.  She gave many Filipinos hope that our country is worth saving and that the Filipino is worth living for.

Thank you, President Cory, for inspiring us.  Thank you for keeping the fire of hope alive within us.  Thank you for making me realize that indeed, the Filipino can hurdle even the most insurmountable obstacles with the power of prayer and unwavering faith.

CORAZON COJUANGCO AQUINO “CORY”

1933-2009

(Photo courtesy of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism) 

“If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life?” (Mt 16:24-26)

“Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and all my will, all that I have and possess. You have given them to me; to you, O Lord, I restore them; all things are yours, dispose of them according to your will. Give me your love and your grace, for this is enough for me.” (Prayer of Ignatius of Loyola, 1491-1556)