Reggie's father, Tito Lino, died last Friday. Since then it had been a harrowing week filled with grief and preparations. Surprisingly, or maybe this is usual during times of death, there were also times of joy and warmth.

None of us really knew what to do in terms of preparations. We just felt our way through and asked advice from those who had more experience. It was hard for Reggie and Marc to have their dad pass away but at the same time, it was almost a relief that their dad wasn't in pain anymore.

During this time, countless of friends and relatives offered their sympathy and support. Relatives came in from out of state. When Tita Becky, Reggie and Marc had spoken to the funeral home director, they said that they only expected less than 20 people. But on the day of the wake, there were at least a hundred people who came to pay their respects. Many were Tita Becky's co-workers who worked just across the street. Reggie was surprised and grateful to find so many of his friends there as well. I would like to thank the Huskies (Ron, Troy, Brian, Mike) for coming out.

Our area of the Bronx is a little out of the way for people who don't usually venture over here. Reggie was really touched that many of his friends made it out. In addition, many people gave sympathy cards or prayer cards which oftentimes had money enclosed. We totally didn't expect it and were a bit overwhelmed by everyone's generosity. (Thank you so much to Ron, Troy, Dave, Mike and Brian).

The funeral Mass was the next day and went really well. I sang the Ave Maria, Kuya Earle sang The Lord's Prayer. Marc's eulogy was really wonderful, one of the best I've ever heard. I wish I could put it up in this blog but I haven't asked permission. We had programs all set to hand out also. Unfortunately, right after the Mass, I had to take a final so I didn't get to go to the crematorium with everyone else. But I did get to make it to the luncheon which was very enjoyable.

The days were not totally filled with sorrow. Many times there were laughter as old friends and relatives saw each other again, or reminisced about past antics, or related anecdotes about Tito Lino. And I think that's how it should be. A celebration of the LIFE of Tito Lino and a time to remember the shortness of our own lives so that we can fill it with love and laughter.