I have known Marilou for about 22 years now—and have always been jealous of the fact that she never seemed to age! Even when she was young, though, she always had a wisdom beyond her age. Tough experiences—when gone through with your hand in God’s—gives you wisdom—and trust. Marilou had her share of tough experiences and challenges but she always came out the other side with peace, and gratitude.
The thing that always gave her the strength to weather anything was the love of her children, Maricar and Robbie. They were her life. Everything she was and everything she did was for them. She was the personification of what the maternal instinct looks like in action. Her love gave them security, confidence, the ability to dream and the encouragement to accomplish those dreams.
Maricar and Robbie were loved so very deeply and, of course, they know it and responded with a tremendous love in return.
In looking at the picture of Marilou on the day Maricar and Cornelle were married, I could see such a look of pride in her face and, at the same time I could almost see her thinking, “My work is done here”. Both Maricar and Robbie have another special person in their lives now, who can pick up the torch and walk with them on their journeys.
After Marilou’s stroke, I told Maricar and Robbie that they needed to tell her that it was okay to go to God because she had done such a great job and they knew that she would continue to surround them with love from heaven. The greatest act of love is to let go and, although it was, indeed, the most difficult thing they have ever done, their love gave them the courage to do it. Now Marilou is free—as she had dreamed about—and is close to her children in a new but very real way.
I would say, “Rest in Peace, Marilou” but I know you won’t be just “resting”. You will be singing, and dancing and loving—in peace! Instead, I will say, “Enjoy your well-deserved reward in the loving arms of God, Marilou—and help us out when you get a chance!”
