My MomHero | My Nanay

Nanay is like Grandmother in Tagalog. Tagalog is a language of the Philippines. My Nanay is over 80, healthy and beautiful. Of course she is one of My MomHeroes because she is part of the root that started my family. I have always know Nanay to be a strong woman. She is very independent too. She lost the love of her life nearly 30 years ago. I always remember feeling some pain for her when I was young and in love. Wondering how a woman can go through life without the man she loves so dearly beside her. Through all adversity, you’d never know if she was ever in pain. She has a strong backbone, a firm voice and a righteous spirit.

Nanay My MomHero

Nanay is my MomHero because she raised my father, along with his four siblings – my uncle and three aunts, one whom has already passed. Another tough time for Nanay. Parents shouldn’t have to live to see their young die, but it happens. Again, she was strong and gave all her worries to the Lord. Did I mention that she is a Christian woman. An avid church goer she is. I know she prays for us all, I can feel it. Grandmothers are like that. They care for us in a way we will never know until we are in their shoes.

When you walk into her apartment, yes she lives alone – I told you she was independent – it’s like a family museum. Her walls are lined with family photos, her most prized possessions! After all, she only has 15 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, with Pinky being her ONLY great granddaughter! I hope I didn’t miscount! Her house smells like flowers and is filled with plants, albums, mementos of her past, bible verses and old tapes. The last time I was there I came across a greeting card file where she had everyone’s birthday’s listed and cards ready to personalize and mail out. I love it! She is always welcoming with her proper Filipino mannerisms, “come on, let’s eat!” She always has something to offer us and anyone for that matter.

I love my Nanay. I am guilty of not showing it as much as I should, but I do love her dearly. She may not know it but she has taught me a lot over the years. As a child I was afraid of her mean scary voice and her wide eyed stare. Later I realized that I’d inherit similar traits of disciplinary action on my siblings and now Pinky. I have come to learn that everything has a purpose and a reason behind it. I know now, my grandma always meant well. She helped raise us all, not only by raising our parents to be who they are, but she has contributed tremendously to our lives directly…now! Her very presence brings me peace. Peace that she is still here, my only living grandparent. Peace that I will be able to make it in this world as I age. Nanay is a strong, independent, God-fearing woman. She is my grandmother, my Nanay, My MomHero!

I love you, Nanay!