She was the best of us
It feels like I have been writing a lot about loss lately. Today marks 8 years from when I lost my Titi (Aunt). Anyone who knew her, loved her and was loved by her. We lost her directly following Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and she was taken from us too soon.
Maybe you have that person in your family, the one that takes care of everyone-always. I never remember my Titi having much, but she always gave all she had. When mom would take us to visit Puerto Rico, our family gatherings would always be in her home. We didn’t want to be anywhere else. Her food was always the best and I am forever thankful that she showed Rob and I all the little tricks of the trade. I can still hear her voice guiding us every time we cook her meals. I can still hear her laughter, even when she cheated at dominoes! My oldest daughter and I still say “fondi” and laugh as we recall Titi chasing us around grabbing at our butts. I have so many memories with her and they all bring sadness and joy. When I close my eyes, I can still smell her and feel her hugs as she wrapped her arms around me and just made me feel loved.
When I was pregnant with the girls, she contacted me everyday just to make sure I was ok. Although we were miles and an ocean apart, I never felt far from her. She showed me enduring love and loved my children as if they were her own. I miss her.
I received my call to go to Puerto Rico as part of the recovery efforts with the National Guard so I packed all that I could to help out my family that remained on the island. By the time I left, I was too late for Titi. I can’t tell you how many times I questioned why I couldn’t get there sooner. Why was I going all the way there and not able to save her? None of us were ready for her final good bye.
Jesus reminded us that although we will be troubled in our lives, that He is only leaving temporarily to prepare a place for us. He reminds us that our place is with Him and where He is going (John 14: 1-4, NIV). Our time on this earth is just temporary. I know it does not remove the hurt and pain from loss, but it does give me hope. I know that one day, I will hear her laughter again. I imagine her playing bones up in heaven, slapping her last domino down, and prancing around in victory…who cares if it didn’t match anything on the board, her joy has to be as infectious in heaven as it was here on earth.
Today I pray that you live in these moments. I pray that although you may have lost loved ones on this earth, that you never forget that your reunion in our Father’s house will be beyond imagination. Maybe you play a game of bones in memory of my Titi!
2 responses to “She was the best of us”
kennethwhite
Oct 11, 2025 at 7:32 am
Beautiful family and beautiful story! I am fortunate to have had a person like your Titi in my life. Rich, rich heritage Cristina! I felt just how your piece came directly from your heart.
Cristina Moore
Oct 11, 2025 at 9:13 am
She was a special soul. Truly blessed to be in her presence…even if it didn’t feel long enough.
