Over time, Tatay Ramón weakened. At 85, the doctor at the provincial hospital said his heart was very fragile. A few days before his last night, he often called me to his bedside to tell me stories from his youth and remind his children and grandchildren to live with honor.
Until the afternoon of farewell arrived. Breathing heavily, he called to me. He handed me an old pillow, torn on one side, and in a weak voice said,
« For… Maria… »
I clutched the pillow to my chest, not really understanding. Within minutes, he closed his eyes forever.
# The secret in the pillow
The night before, sitting on the terrace, I opened the torn pillow. What I found inside took my breath away: neatly folded banknotes, a few small gold coins, and three old savings booklets.
I was stunned, then I burst into tears. So he had saved all the little money his children had given him, as well as what he had obtained from selling a small piece of land in the village. Instead of spending it, he had hidden it in this torn pillow… and left it for me.
There was also a word, written in almost illegible handwriting:
« My daughter, you are the hardest-working and kindest daughter-in-law I have ever known. I am not leaving you riches, but I hope this will help you live a little better. Do not blame your husband’s brothers, for I myself chose to leave this to you—because you took care of me for 12 years. »
# Tears of gratitude
See more on the next page
Advertisement
