Postcards to Heaven: Of Nursery Rhymes and Evening Prayers

January 16, 2017

11:18 PM

At this time of the day, it’s either you’re already fast asleep or taking a peek at who’s not yet home.

I couldn't count the nights that I would sneak into your pillow-filled bed just to hold your calloused hands or just look at how peaceful you are.  Though your eyes are already closed, I would still talk to you about my day.  There are times that you would open your eyes just to let me know that you are listening.  I appreciated that.  And I’m sorry for the countless times that I would wake you up with my loud kisses in the middle of the night.  Nevertheless, you still smiled. 

No matter what went through our day, Mommy, Daddy, Ate Tatet and Ate Lilet would always make sure to be in high spirits whenever we know you’re in the living room waiting for us.  With our ready smiles, commercial jingles and nursery rhymes, off we go to the first and last person we kiss every single day.  

I would never forget your amusing habit of softly spanking your forehead whenever you already feel sleepy.  As you slowly close your eyes, rest your head on the back of your special chair and slightly open your mouth to say something, we would know that it’s time to say good night.

But whenever we tuck you in bed, your energy always seemed to be recharged.  You would kick your feet in excitement, roll by the side and lie on your stomach.  That’s when the extra nursery rhymes come in handy. 😊

My favorite part of our bedtime routine would always be the moment when I ask if you have already prayed.  I could see your eyes flicker as you smile at me.  It’s as if you’re telling me, “I’m waiting for you Ate.  Let’s pray together.”

And as I reminisce these precious moments before I go to bed, I whisper our favorite prayer that never fails to make you smile.

“Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom his love commits me here, ever this day, be at my side to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.

Thank you for the world so sweet.  Thank you for the food we eat.  Thank you for the birds that sing.  Thank you, God, for everything.

Now, I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep.  And If I die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.”

Good night, Ate Ma.  I love you. ❤