When the Last Peso Falls

Chapter 37 Attempts at Mediation

The Manlapig family sat in the large conference room of a local mediation center, their expressions a mix of hope and skepticism. The room, with its neutral beige walls and large round table, seemed too calm for the storm brewing beneath the surface. Patricia, Luis, Rosa, and Marco, along with their respective families, were present, each carrying the burden of unresolved issues.

At the head of the table sat Ms. Rosalinda Cortez, a seasoned mediator known for her calm demeanor and diplomatic skills. She cleared her throat and began, "Thank you all for coming. I understand that tensions are high, but my goal here is to help you find common ground and move forward. Let's start by addressing each of your concerns openly and honestly."

Patricia took a deep breath and spoke first. "We're here because we want to resolve the issues surrounding Lola Remedios's inheritance. But it feels like every attempt at conversation just leads to more conflict."

Luis leaned forward, his eyes narrowing slightly. "That's because some people are more concerned with their own interests than with what's fair for everyone."

Rosa shifted uncomfortably in her seat. "We all have different perspectives on what's fair, Luis. It's not just about who gets what—it's also about how we can maintain our family bonds despite these disagreements."

Marco, sitting beside Eliza, looked down at his hands. "I just want us to stop fighting and find a way to get through this together. But it's hard when it feels like nobody trusts each other anymore."

Ms. Cortez nodded thoughtfully. "Let's try to identify the core issues here. Patricia, you mentioned the responsibility of managing the inheritance. Can you elaborate on how this has affected you?"

Patricia sighed and glanced at her siblings. "Since Lola passed, I've been trying to manage everything. It's overwhelming, and I feel like I'm carrying the weight of all the expectations. I just want to make sure we're honoring her legacy properly."

Luis interrupted, "But you're the one making all the decisions unilaterally! We should have a say in how things are handled."

Patricia's face flushed. "I've tried to involve everyone, but every decision seems to spark more conflict. I'm doing my best to be fair, but it's difficult when no one can agree on anything."

Ms. Cortez raised a hand to calm the growing tension. "Luis, it's clear that you have concerns about how decisions are being made. What specific changes would you like to see?"

Luis leaned back in his chair, his arms crossed. "I think we need a more transparent process. We need to have regular meetings where everyone's opinions are heard and considered before any major decisions are made."

Rosa nodded in agreement. "I agree with Luis. Transparency is crucial. But we also need to address how we communicate with each other. There's been so much anger and blame that it's hard to have constructive conversations."

Eliza, sitting beside Marco, added softly, "It would also help if we could set some ground rules for these meetings. Like focusing on the issues at hand and avoiding personal attacks."

Marco looked up, his voice hesitant. "I think we should also consider individual counseling. Each of us has our own struggles, and maybe addressing those separately could help us come together better."

Ms. Cortez took notes and then addressed the group. "It sounds like you all have valid concerns and suggestions. Let's try to establish a clear plan for moving forward. We'll set up regular meetings with an agenda that includes discussing financial decisions, communication strategies, and personal support."

Patricia looked at her siblings, her voice tinged with desperation. "I really want us to make this work. For Lola's sake, and for our own. Can we agree to follow through with this plan?"

Luis's expression softened slightly. "I'm willing to give it a try, but I want to see real changes. No more unilateral decisions."

Rosa sighed, her voice weary but hopeful. "I'm on board. Let's focus on rebuilding trust and finding solutions together."

Marco nodded, a flicker of relief in his eyes. "I agree. We've all been through so much. It's time to make an effort to heal."

Ms. Cortez smiled, sensing a breakthrough. "Great. We have a starting point. Let's commit to this process and work towards resolution. It won't be easy, but with open communication and mutual respect, you can find a path forward."

As the meeting adjourned, the Manlapig family left the room with a sense of cautious optimism. The journey ahead was uncertain, but for the first time in a long while, there was a glimmer of hope that their efforts might lead to reconciliation and healing.

In the days that followed, the family began to implement the mediation plan. Regular meetings were scheduled, and each member made an effort to adhere to the new ground rules. The process was far from smooth, with occasional setbacks and heated discussions, but there were moments of genuine progress.

Patricia, Luis, Rosa, and Marco all took small steps towards rebuilding trust, focusing on their shared goal of honoring Lola Remedios's legacy while addressing their personal and collective issues. The road to resolution was long and challenging, but the attempts at mediation marked a crucial turning point in the Manlapig family's journey towards healing and reconciliation.