Read about the demise of Jean from one of her close relatives, and it came more than just as a surprise from nowhere. It was so least expected, given her passion and energy, and zest for life. Even though by all standards she had already lived a full life - studied, worked, raised a family, and enjoyed retirement.
Because of social media, we never really were unconnected since we had known each other. Which acquaintance really was not that long compared to our other contemporary friends.
Though we had known "of each other" since our childhood days in Cagayan de Oro, I never really knew Jean until the later part of our stay in the US, particularly after our retirement. After which time, we started re-connecting with people from the old homeland, and reminiscing about the many common experiences shared during our youth.
I could say that we shared also common ideologies and beliefs in politics, values, and maybe life in general. At some point Jean also tried re-settling in the old homeland like we did. After a while her thinking changed not just because of the changed conditions in the old homeland which I am sure she also found alienating, but also because like us her loved ones and other family members are still in the US.
Even as late as a few weeks or so ago, we on occasion shared in our FB timelines our own perception of what we believed to be truths in the political life in the US. And like me, I also sensed in her a deep belief in and commitment on the same issues and values. And I continued to admire her for taking such stances which clearly were not popular among our circles of friends and acquaintances. Maybe the poet in her gave her the clarity of her thoughts and the strength to pursue and adhere to her principles.
I will miss her personally and so will I am sure many of her loved ones and close acquaintances, and those who have had interaction with her in the past.
Rest in peace, Jean. You have done your part. And I can declare unreservedly that our lives had been blest and had become better because of the examples you showed in your living your life. And we shall then continue to live our lives inspired by those sterling gems.
