To me, mom was the epitome of resilience. We chuckle endearingly every time we reminiscent on what happened back in 2016, when she wasn’t doing well and was hospitalized. Raphael, Tiffany and I drove from Michigan to Toronto to see her. She was fairly weak when we first arrived, which left us rather concerned. Somehow, in the following hour, she recovered enough that she was discharged by the doctor. That afternoon, Daniel took her to the hairstylist and she showed up for dinner at the restaurant all decked out, fit as a fiddle.
I am in awe of her independence and self-sufficiency. She never allowed the stroke she suffered years ago, which caused immobility of her left hand and arm, to limit her abilities. I still cannot figure out how she managed to cook and make big pots of soups all by herself!
Of course, I cannot not mention how she inspired me in the department of accessorizing. Anyone who knows her would have seen her impressive collection of necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings that she wore on a daily basis. I cannot exactly recall when we started nicknaming her Queen Elizabeth II (英女皇). She was seriously the spitting image of Her Majesty with her head of silver hair, ever present jewelry and handbag.
Mom had been the matriarch of the huge Pak clan and will be dearly missed. Our family will never be the same without her, but I have no doubt that the bond, care and love we have for each other will continue strong. Rest well in the arms of our Heavenly Father till we meet again.
Rosa