The journey of a mother who has lost her child is one of the most heart-wrenching experiences imaginable.
Like Mary during the Crucifixion and Death of Jesus, Nelda faced an unimaginable reality as she watched her beloved daughter, Joy, struggle against the merciless grip of COVID-19. Each day was a battle, filled with anguish and uncertainty, as Nelda bore the pain of seeing her child fight for breath, hope dwindling with each passing moment.
At some point in this ordeal, Nelda found herself questioning everything she had ever believed. The weight of grief can sometimes obscure our faith, making it seem like a distant memory rather than a source of strength.
“Sa time nga si Joy gi-revive, grabe akong pangalyupo sa Ginoo nga dili niya kuhaon si Joy. Pero wala ko gidungog sa Ginoo. Nangluod ko niya. Wala nako mo-serve sa simbahan. Walay kabutangan sa sakit nga akong gibati,” said Nelda.
Yet, through this darkness, Nelda discovered an undeniable truth: even in our deepest despair, there lies an opportunity for rebirth.
She allowed herself to feel both the depths of her sorrow and the glimmers of hope that emerged from it. Today, she stands as a testament to what it means to endure unimaginable loss while nurturing an even deeper connection with God.
“Sa mga mama nga nawad-an og anak, laban lang. Padayon lang ta kay naa pa man nagmahal nato. Adto ta mokuha og kusog. Ug labaw sa tanan, sa Ginoo,” she said.
Nelda’s story is not just about loss; it’s about transformation. It reminds us that while pain can shake our foundations, it can also lead us to profound spiritual growth. Her journey teaches us that faith can indeed flourish in the aftermath of tragedy, stronger than before, serving as a guiding light for others who may find themselves on similar paths.