A Journey of Love and Remembrance

Today, the whole world celebrates the International Day of Peace. All the rest of September, we dedicate as Suicide Awareness Month. These two observances may initially appear unrelated, but for me, they are deeply connected. Both remind us of the significance of compassion, understanding, and reaching out to one another. Every person carries silent battles, some visible and some unseen. Mental health challenges do not discriminate. They affect people from all walks of life. And in a world that often pushes us to be strong, we must remember that it’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to not be okay.

My heart goes out to every family who has lost a loved one to suicide, and to all those quietly struggling with their own mental health. I lost my dear Enzo, and not a day goes by that I don’t feel the weight of his absence, a constant reminder of the love and laughter that has been lost. The pain of losing him is something I will carry forever. Yet, amidst this deep sorrow, I have found a renewed sense of purpose: to raise awareness about mental health issues, to speak up for those who cannot, and to pray that no other family has to endure the same journey as mine. Honoring his memory has taught me the importance of listening to others, practicing empathy, and engaging in small acts of kindness.

Peace has always been part of our family’s journey, guiding my boys, Enzo and Vito, through various experiences and shaping their values. In 2016, we joined the Teach Peace Build Peace Movement to celebrate the International Day of Peace at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center in Quezon City. The day was not merely an event on the calendar; it was a full-day activity filled with hope, action, and a collective spirit aimed at fostering peace. We engaged in various activities that allowed us to express our commitment to peace in creative and heartfelt ways.

One of the highlights of our day was painting vibrant murals on the hospital walls. These murals were not just splashes of color; they were messages of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in a future filled with peace. Each stroke of the brush was a reminder that art can serve as a powerful medium for change and inspiration. We took the time to hand out single-stemmed roses to passersby, a simple yet profound gesture that symbolized our desire to spread love and kindness. The smiles we received in return were priceless, reinforcing the idea that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a ripple effect in the community. As we greeted our neighbors with warm phrases like “Peace be with you” or the Arabic greeting “As-salamu alaykum,” we fostered connections that transcended language and cultural barriers, emphasizing our shared humanity.

Our visit to the injured soldiers was perhaps the most emotional part of the day. We listened to their stories, honored their courage, and expressed our gratitude for their sacrifices in defending peace and order in our country. The boys were very attentive as they listened to the stories and experiences shared that day. They asked thoughtful questions, engaged sincerely, and expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to participate and learn. It was heartening to see them so aware of the importance of peace, compassion, and honoring those who have served and sacrificed.

Every action, every encouraging word, and every moment of connection can contribute to building a more peaceful world. Our family’s journey is still unfolding, but the lessons learned during that unforgettable day deeply marked in our hearts, reminding us of the importance of actively engaging in the creation of a harmonious society. That day signified that peace is not just the absence of conflict, it is the presence of compassion, care, and understanding. No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever too little to contribute.

As we take a moment to reflect on the critical themes of suicide awareness and the pursuit of peace, it is my heartfelt hope that we can all consciously choose to embody compassion in our daily interactions and relationships. Let us strive to listen to one another without judgment, creating a safe space where individuals feel valued and understood. Each individual carries a unique story, filled with experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Together, we can strive to be the light in someone’s darkness, a source of hope, and a reminder that even in the hardest moments, we are never truly alone.

Let this month motivate us to bring peace and compassion wherever we go. This I say in remembrance of Enzo, and in honor to all those quietly facing challenges.

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