A Rose is a Rose

I know many of my IRL friends know this, but my given name is a variation of both of my Grandmothers’ names. My first name is my Dad’s mom, and my “first” middle name* is my Mom’s mom. Coincidentally it is also my Mom’s name, as she was named after her mom.

With that said, both my Mom and Grandmother’s name is a variation of the name Rose. And therefore, my official name on my birth certificate is listed as Emily Rose.

This middle name; the given name of my Grandma is something that bonds all the female cousins on my Mom’s side of the family. Every single one of us has some variation of the name “Rose” in our name. It’s something that I’ve always thought was wonderful to share … and at the same time, wonderful to feel such a strong connection to our Grandmother.

Why am I telling you this? It’s because tonight I received the dreaded news that I’ve been expecting for the past two and a half weeks.

Yes, tonight (or rather Friday morning in the Philippines), heaven received another angel. My Grandma Rose passed away.

While I’m happy that she is no longer suffering**, I can’t help but be incredibly sad. And while it’s been literally years since I’ve last seen her face-to-face, I am going to miss knowing she is here on this earth with me.

Because regardless of where she was in this world, I always seemed to sense her presence around me; guiding me like she did when I was a baby and then a toddler. Singing songs with me as I learned my alphabet other important things (after all, she was always the consummate teacher her entire life). Slipping me candy treats from her purse whenever Mom wasn’t looking.

I know she will be watching over me up their in the heavens. And I know that she will continue to guide me throughout my life. But it still doesn’t stop me from shedding these tears. And feeling as if my world is a little less joyful. At least for now.

This is Grandma Rose at 99 years old ... the picture was taken by one of my cousins. Isn't she beautiful?
This is Grandma Rose at 99 years old. The picture was taken by one of my cousins earlier this year. Isn't she absolutely beautiful?

I love you, Grandma and I will miss you. Please say hi to Grandpa for me … and to all our other family members who have gone ahead of me. I am happy that you are finally resting peacefully …

*****

And THANK YOU to everyone out there who has said prayers for my family. I strongly believe that it was all of your thoughts and prayers that allowed me to “speak” to my Grandma last night (Thursday morning in the Philippines) for the very last time.

~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~

* Filipinos have a weird thing about names. With me, my parents wanted to name me after both grandmothers so they provided me with TWO middle names; my maternal grandmother’s name (Rose) and, as tradition dictates, my Mom’s maiden name.

** In my Grandma’s case, “suffering” refers to the fact that she most likely suffered a major stroke, leaving her with little ability to move … let alone communicate. And as my Grandma always had a fondness for words and conversation, I know that she was probably in extreme distress about not being able to talk.

16 Replies to “A Rose is a Rose”

  1. Emily, my condolences on the passing of your grandmother. I’m glad she was able to wait for her family to let go.
    She was beautiful and I know she will be with you always.

  2. Truly a wonderful, special woman and role model. You’ll carry not only her name, but her special uniqueness, grace, and beauty onward. Sorry to hear of her passing, though we all see now a bit more of what makes you shine! : )

    Our Best,

    Martins West

  3. Emily – Your grandma was absolutely BEAUTIFUL!! she looks 75 in that picture – not 99. Wow, what a looker and clearly a wonderful woman. I hope you are comforted by your memories of her and know that she will always love you. My heart goes out to you and your family Em. Hugs.

  4. I’m so sorry for your loss. Wow, I never would have guessed she was 99 years old in that picture. What a lovely lady!

  5. I’m sorry, Emily. 🙁 I’m glad your mom & relatives were able to be there with her.

    And I think it’s totally cool that you & all your girl cousins bear her name!

  6. I’m so sorry for your loss, Emily. And judging by her fabulous photo, a true loss indeed. May we all live such long, full and meaningful lives!

  7. Oh Em, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your grandmother was obviously very special. A look at her picture can tell me that.

  8. I’m so sorry Emily. Thinking of you and your family at this hard time. Hugs to you.

  9. Em —

    I’m sorry you lost your Lola, and wish Ronin and I could comfort you with hugs and kisses.

    Thinking of you and your fam …

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