They said you could never be a mother. Of course, your frail body would never allow it. You have a hole in your heart, asthma and your body didn't developed into something that could carry a child. Since birth, you have fought for life. The doctors said that you won't last long, that the world wouldn't be able to see you grow up. And I wished they were right. Maybe then you wouldn't have to suffer this much. I still remember the days when my mother would scold me because of something then you would be there telling her to stop, you would be there comforting me, drying my tears and lulling me to sleep. Your warmth was the only comfort I had when our home broke apart. You were always there teaching me things, how to sew, how to take care of my siblings, how to be a good daughter. You were the only one who witnessed how I was bullied, and the only one who fought for me. You would always fold my clothes, pack me lunch and tell me you love me. I used to tell you too. I used to be your sweet little niece who followed you everywhere. I used to be your favorite. But then I changed, didn't I? I became an ungrateful kid. I thought I knew the world. I thought I would no longer need your help. But even though I would always push you away, you're still there at the corner, waiting for me. Puberty hit me like a crap, and I began to be a crap. My heart forgot it's innocence, my manners and you. I forgot how well you treated me, how big your heart is. I know there's a hole in it, but it didn't stop to love us. I love you, Tita. That's what I badly want to tell you. That you're the best mother. I should have told you that, maybe then your heart won't give up. So this is the letter I should have sent to you. I wished I have been a better niece. I wished I have been more sensitive, more mindful. I wished I have cared as much as you did. Maybe then, you would have met God with a happy heart. Sorry for disappointing you. Sorry for not being good enough. You only really know the value of someone, when they're already gone. But I won't be sad now. You always tell me to cheer up, and I will, tita. I promise you, no matter how hard life gets, I would never give up. God took you home but you would forever live in my heart.
And I wish the world will know, that mothers don't always have to give birth, sometimes it's their capability to love and forgive a child for them to be worthy to be called as one.