Abuelita Celita

It's never a proper trip to Colombia unless there are several visits to the matriarch of the family. Abuelita used to be know as just that, abuelita. But now with a new generation of little ones rushing around the house we have to add the clarifying first name as well as another space between the generations. The love and positive energy exuded by Abuelita Celita cannot be oversated. Walking into her house, or her being helped along into ours, brings with it a certain feeling of compassion, of togetherness and solidarity, or pure love. This summer's visit was no exception to that rule. Her smile seemingly filled the entire world and added that much more to our own joy. It was doubly wonderful that, this time, Moca could meet her and Pappou could see her again! These days, at 97, she cherishes every moment with us, and we with her. We managed several visits, some short and others longer, including the Copa America final (Chile versus Argentina) where she sat among the masses of extended family members, enjoying the family spirit and energy. 

There was a long moment, that particular day (but later on as well), when Abuelita Celita and Irini shared some time together. We looked over at some point to see the two of them, separated by 90 years of life yet linked together without effort, sitting next to each other, hand in hand, sharing a whisper, or a smile, a hug or a kiss. It was a special moment and we knew it as it took shape. We watched from behind them as they spent over 30 hour sitting side by side, chatting and watching the game. 90 years of difference, sharing time and space and connection. In some ways, life will never get better than that. 

Needless to say our goodbye was difficult. Tears streamed down our faces as we left for the airport and the girls, as if on cue, also shed some of their own. They were tears of sweet memories and a longing to be together a bit longer, but held back by the knowledge that we needed to get on that plane and head out. Still, the tears were perhaps the most obvious of symbols of our love for Abuelita, who always finds a place in people's hearts. It is obvious to us that her kindness shines on all of us, even when we are so far away.