A Tribute – Here I Am, Lord

EDUARDO DAVID

As their Couples for Christ household head, let me say that Mila and Tony Puyat have been great blessings to our household. While she claimed that she experienced much love in our household, this couple has, in turn, enriched our understanding of the gospels by their practical example. I will tell you about who and what Mila was to us, in the language of COVID 19 and our times. 4 take away points. 

1. Mila has tested positive. She had a positive attitude; a can-do mentality.  She had the energy and the passion for the work God entrusted to her. Even when others are already in retirement mode, like Caleb, she worked practically till the end of her days on her bag project, among others, for the poor, giving love and hope, not just a livelihood.  This couple was also tested positive for generosity, opening their home to us, inviting us to their family celebrations, and sharing their lives with us. I particularly remember the Japanese-inspired birthday celebration for Tony at Blue Leaf. 

2. Not only was she tested positive, but she was also a carrier. She infected others with the passion to serve, enabling others to serve the last, the least, and the lost. She did not choose the persons she worked with—”Hindi siya namimili” (she does not choose). “Lahat puede kasama kung makakatulong”(Everyone is allowed to be included as long as one can help). For Mila, it was not a job, and for which reason, she never tired. It was not for honor, either.  She was not embarrassed to ask for “retasos” (remnants) if this will create opportunities- for others.

3. But Mila was vaccinated, vaccinated with a forgiving heart. Hindi “lang” (not only)Pfizer or Moderna. But directly, from God almighty! She appeared immune to past hurts, preferring to overcome conflicts and disagreements, and become a source of unity for her family. It was not important to her who was right, for she valued relationships more.  And while it pained her to experience conflict and division, her therapy was her strong love for all her siblings, in-laws, and their families.  No exceptions. “Lahat minahal niya” (she loved everyone). Each of her children, both near and far, was precious to her. She loved and talked proudly about the special talents of each of her children, their spouses, and their grandchildren, loving them without judgment and limitation. She was proud of each of their achievements and didn’t dwell on disappointments. If she had an alternative view, she kept it in her heart. 

4. She also experienced a pandemic, a pandemic of love in return. During the last 2 years, while she cared for Tony and when her condition became more pronounced, she told us how much she appreciated whatever her children were doing for her, including installing the CCTV for her protection. She appreciated your physical and virtual presence, or when someone would offer to handle her food or take charge of little and big things for her. She trusted each of you completely. I just learned yesterday how well her doctors, nurses, caregivers, and drivers did their utmost as their gift of affection for her and her family.

In closing, Mila, we love you dearly. When you see your beloved Tony, hug him for us. “Puede ng walang” (no more) social distancing. “Wala” (no) ng masks. And when you see God, all the pain and suffering will disappear, and all your prayers answered. And everything that has happened in your life will all make sense, and you will realize everything you did with great love, our God knew even before you were born. May we ask you to please intercede for those who have no one to turn to, no jobs or hope, sick but could not get hospital beds, for those in leadership roles so they may understand they are there to serve, and lastly for us, family and friends alike, please request for an end to this pandemic. 

We will miss you, your generosity, and your warm companionship. Tony will now be complete with you by his side. You have run the race; you have fought the good fight. The prize of eternal life is yours and Tony’s. Until we all meet again, “Vaya con Diyos” (God be with you).