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The enduring legacy of love and communication in a close-knit family

By MARGIE MORAN FLOIRENDO, The Philippine STAR Published May 08, 2024 5:00 am

In a world where time seems to slip through our fingers like grains of sand, there is a treasure that shines brightly amidst the chaos: the bond of a close-knit family. This bond, woven with threads of love, communication, and shared experiences, forms the foundation of a legacy that transcends generations.

I come from a lineage of strong and resilient women, starting with my widowed mother who raised eight children with unwavering determination. Her own mother, a single parent who navigated the challenges of World War II, instilled in her a sense of resilience and perseverance. These matriarchs passed down valuable lessons of gratitude, resourcefulness and faith in God's grace and plan.

Third-generation Roxas family residing in Manila. "We are the grandchildren of our Lola Juanita McIlvain, a single mother," says the author. "On my left, Alexandra Moran, widow of my brother, Francis; sister Lulette Monbiot; Teresa Roxas Tan; Juanita Javellana Montalvan; and Bobby Roxas. We remain a close-knit family."

Some of the most important values that have been ingrained in me are the importance of not wasting food, the pursuit of education for a better life, generosity partnered with the spirit of volunteerism and the power of prayers in cultivating a strong faith. These values have guided me through life's ups and downs, shaping my beliefs and actions in profound ways.

As a mother, I have learned the meaning of unconditional love and forgiveness. Regardless of any mistakes made, I have always strived to show love and forgiveness without expecting anything in return.

As a mother, I have learned the true meaning of unconditional love and forgiveness. Regardless of any mistakes made, I have always strived to show love and forgiveness without expecting anything in return. These values have formed the cornerstone of my relationships with my daughters, fostering a sense of understanding, compassion and acceptance.

Now, as a grandmother, I cherish the moments spent with my daughters and grandchildren, realizing the fleeting nature of time. We engage in out-of-town activities, creating lasting memories and deepening our bonds. Through these shared experiences, we reinforce the importance of family, communication and togetherness.

Communication has been the key that has unlocked the door to enduring relationships within our family. My children communicate with me as much as I do with them, fostering a sense of connection and understanding that transcends any distance or differences. This constant communication is a testament to the love that perseveres through each member of our family.

In a close-knit family, each day of bonding extends beyond the present moment, shaping a lifetime of cherished relationships. The legacy of love, communication and shared experiences that we pass down through the generations is a precious gift that will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who are touched by it.

As I look to the future, my hope is that this legacy will continue to flourish, inspiring future generations to prioritize family, communication and love above all else. Our family's bond is a beacon of light in a world that can sometimes feel dim, reminding us of the enduring power of love and connection.