The morning started like another with getting children ready to start their day so it was so unusual for my mom to call me. “Mary turn on the TV.” My mom knew I was just starting my school day and that we normally didn’t have a TV on.
There I was faced with the images of the World Trade Center Building in flames. As I sat stunned watching, my phone rang again. This time it was my sister.
“Isn’t it awful?”
“Yes, Theresa I can’t believe what’s happening in New York. ”
“Mary, I’m talking about the Pentagon. The Pentagon was hit.”
My husband, Gary, worked at the Pentagon.
I quickly mumbled something like I gotta get the kids and pray. Thanks for letting me know.
I gathered all 8 kids and prayed for Gary and prayed for our country. Just prayed and then tried to get the kids focused on school and kept the TV off. I, of course, like thousands of others tried to call my loved one. Circuits were jammed.
Shortly after that, I got a knock at the door. There was my Dad. Without a call, just knowing that my husband worked at the Pentagon and I was home, schooling and caring for our 8 kids he showed up. My Dad who raised 12 kids. My Dad who in WWII had to leave home, wife, and family to go fight against those that would threaten freedom, he showed up. My dad who with my mom would fly to Hawaii in 1997 to spend a month at a time to help me with my cancer battle, caring for my then 6 kids, he showed up.
My dad showed up at my doorstep and announced that he’d just stick around until I heard from Gary.
He took the bigger kids out for a walk around the block so I could have some space to think and pray. He just hung in the background until he knew he wasn’t needed anymore, until I got a call that said I had a husband coming home that day on September 11, 2001. I am so grateful for my dad who showed up so many times in my life.
Heroes were showing up at the Pentagon and in New York City. But in my little corner in my small part of the world, I had my own hero show up and that I will always remember.
What a legacy your dad left; and what a legacy you carry on. I’ve seen you just “show up” too. You, yourself model well what it means to love and care for others.
Oh, Mary how precious. What a thoughtful Dad…One who had been an Admiral taking charge…just loving and being your Dad…Knowing what to do. That is a memory cherished.
And for your parents to be at your side when you had cancer. That battle won. I remember that time in your life. And 2 more children followed.
Still love the memories of “our Filipino Daughter”. You are an amazing Lady, Mary.
Sylvia
Lots of love and hugs to my Philippine Mom!!!