Teofila had many professions: a warrior woman, she graduated from first aid at 16, cook at 13 and was a teacher of the whole family at 18. She was a nurse, a domestic worker, an accountant, a doctor and even an electromechanical. There was nothing in this world that Teofila Duarte could not solve. And yet at the age of 52 he decided that he would formalize his education by completing elementary school, first cycle and complete high school. At the age of 58, he was preparing for his University degree. He wanted credit for his knowledge of how to compose and decompose fans and televisions in the house.
Teofila or mamita as we all called her is the image of the matriarch Reyna. Her legacy will reach all generations as a model of a committed and dedicated woman, wife, partner, mother, grandmother and healer.
Mamita made sure that all her children received the education that the socioeconomic gap of the indigenous peoples of my Panama denied her in her childhood and adolescence.
Mamita made sure that her children were not raised like her, with so many financial limitations.
Mamita became the caregiver and she knew that she gave to all who crossed her path: compassion, active listening and human qualities that opened the doors to be honest and remove problems and turn them into opportunities for growth and learning.
Mamita was there when my daughter was born, when I graduated as a psychologist when I took a plane 20 years ago and told her "I'll be right back." My mother has always been there, for me and for everyone.
Today we have to admit that we fell short by being there for Mamita when she closed the door at night.
Mamita today that your body stops being matter to become essence and spirit, I want to tell you that your lesson of unconditional humanity did not fall on arid land. Your descendants we promise to do everything to follow your steps and teachings. You are and will continue to be the best teacher I have ever had. You live and will live forever in our walk. "I love you mommy" and I will always love you. "
Mari
March 2021