Tribute to Tita Gennie: Kailan Pa Man

The following comes from one of the most active Guilds and a close friend of Tita Gennie. George has wonderful memories of our dear Tita Gen and he composed this poem for her.

KAILAN PA MAN

by George Olympia

FRC Marinduque

Kailan pa man

Ikaw ang aasahan

Kailan pa man

Ikaw ang siyang lakas

Ang tanging tanggulan

Anuman ang dumaan

Ika'y ilaw sa landas

Panatag ka sa puso kong lumbay

Panatag sa kawalang kulay

Ang tanging larawan ng buhay

Katapa't mo sa akin ay di mapapantayan.

Nasan ka?

Bagama't nagkukulang ako

Nasaan ka?

Sa sangang daan kinapapatungan ko

Kailan man

O Diyos!Pag-ibig Mo

Kaluluwa'y ligtas dahil sa Iyo

Kailan man buhay ay iyong inilaan

Upang maligtas ka

Sa aking kapahamakan

Kailan pa man

O Diyos! Kailan pa man

Tribute to Tita Gennie

Let me take a few moments to dedicate this space for some personal thoughts. Yesterday morning, I was greeted by the saddest text message from Tess and Rachel:

"Pls pray for Tita Gennie. She passed away today"

I can never place Tita Gennie's face on a lifeless body.
I can never see this world or imagine life without her. She has taught us to appreciate every person no matter what because in her eyes a person is always good and beautiful. She saw souls when we saw men.

She has been the mother we have rested upon when our hearts were heavy.
She has been a friend we leaned on when our knees were tired.
She has been the mentor who inspired us to be humble and simple while striving for greatness and perfection.

There is a lump in my throat that has been stuck in my chest every since I heard the news that our beloved Tita Gennie has left this world to lay rest in the bosom of her beloved Blessed mother.

But in the deepest recesses of my soul, I know that Tita Gennie is happy and happily looking at us.

She will always, like a gentle mother and firm leader, be watching from afar. Trusting that she has taught enough, proud that we will continue her dedication and love.

Do not stand there in my grave and weep.
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond that glintz on the snow.
I am the sunlight on the rippened grains.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush.
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in the circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand there in my grave and cry.
I am not there. I did not die.


I will not say goodbye for now... but thank you for everything.