My Dearest Clifford,
Thank you for everything—
for your unconditional love, for your deep respect, and for the countless ways you made me happy every single day. Every time you called, whether day or night, you gave me your time and your heart. No matter how tired you were, you would still wake up just to hear my voice. You never grew weary of loving me.
Even with the thousands of miles between us, you always found your way back to me. And now I understand… you must have grown tired. Yet even then, you never stopped guiding me. Your words, your reminders, your advice—they reached deep into my heart and mind. You didn’t stop until you fulfilled what you felt was your mission for me.
We had so many dreams together here in the Philippines. You even bought our retirement home, a place where we were supposed to begin a new chapter of our lives. We were so happy. Never, not even for a moment, did it cross my mind that you would leave so soon.
I wanted to stop you from going back, but I couldn’t. You told me you still had something important to do… I didn’t know that it meant you were leaving for good, with no coming back. I wasn’t prepared for that kind of goodbye. The pain is beyond words, but I know I have to accept it.
Lord, thank You for the 11 beautiful years You lent Clifford to me. He was so kind, so loving—he did nothing but love me and make me happy. Even if our plans were left unfinished, I am forever grateful for every moment we shared, even through the distance. Before You, I return him with an open heart. Please guide him into Your kingdom, for his heart was pure and full of love. Thank You, Lord.
I love you so much, Clifford.
Until next time… I will see you again in heaven.
Forever yours,
Neth Obispo