Incomplete

“Your mom cried when she saw your brother after a long time.” These are the words that continued to linger in my mind. According to my dad, my aunt who chose to be single urged them to let my younger brother stay with them for quite sometime. I wasn’t certain though how long it was but long enough I guess for mom to long for my brother.

When we were kids, two of my aunts would always tag us along wherever they go. They would take us to their clinics and take us out for shopping. We were given much attention because they have no children on their own.

Now, I get to taste how it feels like being away from your own child even for a day. Let me tell you the story then.

My aunt, whom I mentioned above, went here in Manila for their annual pediatric convention. We would often meet whenever they go here to see my kids. My niece was also with them and since the time was quite short, they urged me if Dodo can stay with them for the night. Admittedly, I was quite ambivalent because I wasn’t prepared. He has no clothes and it was the very first time that I won’t get to see him sleep at night. I made Dodo decide because I know; he was overwhelmed with the presence of his cousin. With a snap of a finger he said yes. I was quite shocked honestly and felt left alone. But I know times like these will come and I may need to prepare myself emotionally.

We then headed home. The car was undeniably quiet, no non-stop blabbing as well as singing sesame street’s songs. I must admit at some point I felt peace because oftentimes they would hit my boiling point. Surely we have this love and hate relationship and my house is always a mess here and there but I can instantly feel something is missing.

During the night, I would often check with my cousin how he was behaving and surprisingly he wasn’t looking for me! Oh boy that felt bad I know.

Then the next morning after my crazy cousins made a prank on me and dropped off Dodo, I felt complete again. Boboy even said that this house was lonely only with one child in the house. Now I know why A came too soon. Our house will never be happy with only one child in it. Surely there will be brain-wrecking moments as they continuously annoy each other and they would often tick my boiling point. But our love and hate relationship would represent our presence. That this home will never feel complete when one is missing. It also goes with Boboy when he is on his business trips.

To my kids, I know I wished for you; it may be too soon but enough to feel blessed for having you.