Chapter 10: The Good News

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In February 1978, my lucky month, we received the long-awaited news of Rome's dispensation. February had always been a month of joy and happy events in my life, and this time, the magic was still working its charm.

With great excitement, our friends and relatives rejoiced as we eagerly set the wedding date for May 6, 1978. With three months to prepare, our family and friends came together, fueled by their joy, to create a wedding that would be simple, yet filled with meaning and unforgettable moments.

Disregarding any previous hesitations surrounding our union, the detailed wedding preparations unfolded smoothly, thanks to the remarkable teamwork of our loved ones:

The friends from the Community Development Program (CDP), who were close to William, wholeheartedly assisted him with the application for the marriage license and other necessary documents from the civil government and the Roman Catholic Church.

Two of our dearest friends, a close friend of William from the community development group and my friend and boss at the State University Business Library, graciously agreed to be our witnesses.

William's sister-in-law, Marina, the wife of his brother, took charge of coordinating our Wedding Mass, securing an officiating priest, and arranging the perfect venue. The reception was held on the ground floor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, where the Carmelite Sisters prepared the delectable food for our celebration.

My sister, Emma, took it upon herself to handle my makeup, decorate the church with elegant calla lilies, and ensure that the same flower adorned my bouquet.

Cecilia, another of William's sisters-in-law, generously provided us with a stunning wedding car.

The day of our wedding, May 6, 1978, was a grand affair, orchestrated by the divine hand of the Master Himself. The sun shone brightly in the morning, accompanied by a gentle drizzle, a sign of blessings showered upon us from above.

As we stood before our loved ones, we embodied the image of a perfect bride and groom. I felt radiantly beautiful in my simple white eyelet gown, while William looked dashing in his impeccably tailored barong tagalog. Like any typical bride, I wore a constant smile, gracefully bowed my head, and acknowledged the presence of our guests. However, deep inside, I couldn't help but feel as though I was merely going through the motions, as if the entire scenario was unreal.

William's family arrived early, led by his beloved parents, Mario and Anna, who were both 90 and 86 years old, respectively. Most of his brothers and sisters, accompanied by their families, joyously attended the wedding. His eldest sister, Carmen graced the occasion with her husband, Manuel, and their four children. The elder brother, Maximo, was with his wife, Marina, were also present with their children and families. Alfredo and Cecilia accompanied by their two sons, added to the joyful gathering. Andrea, representing her deceased mother, Felisa, attended together with her father, Dan and her two sisters. Even the youngest brother and his wife Connie, traveled all the way from the United States to be part of this momentous occasion.

Their own family was present in full force. My mother, Felomina accompanied by my uncle, Leo Lavictoria, lovingly walked me down the aisle. My sister, Emma, had been incredibly helpful throughout the entire process, and I couldn't have imagined surviving this event without her. My four younger siblings were all attentive and ready to provide assistance whenever needed.

We were also joined by our dear guests from the province and our neighbors in Manila. My mother's best friend, Nang Caring, and her daughter Mameng were there, along with cousins, uncles and aunties and their friends.

Representatives from the Sisters of Divine Pastor were present including, Sr. Alicia, my good friend from college, Sr. Fatima and my sister counselor, Sr. Tina. Ms. Lorna, a friend from the Martial Law Movement came to represent the group and the friends from Community Development Group who were close to William, also joined us on this joyous day..

It was a truly wonderful wedding day—a day that ended with another miracle, reminiscent of the wedding feast at Cana. Just as the generous Lord turned water into wine, He filled our hearts to the brim with joy. Among the most precious wedding gifts we received was a 5-day, all-expenses-paid honeymoon in Green Valley, Baguio City.

In the spirit of gratitude, we offer this Thanksgiving Prayer:

Thank you, Lord, for blessing me with the best among the best of your creations—my husband. I don't deserve such a special gift, yet I rejoice in the fact that you remembered your humble servant and sent me a loving husband from heaven.

Thank you, Willy, my husband, my love. You are the best thing that has ever happened in my life—the most precious and perfect gift from God. In this moment, my wish for us is to always remain together, according to the Lord's will.

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