On Leaving

Uncle Tony was flying to the United States. Mano nga lugan itti napan idiay airport to see him off. Prior to, we all had a going away party for him at Sabangan.

Notice the sling holding my (L) upper extremity. The month was April - pinag-kukuruminas. I remember that day - kunak no matay akon. Tanting, the son of Tiya Mameng from Eskina, rubbed my whole arm with either suka or naata nga mangga. Talaga- natalimudaw ak. I was studying piano then and it took a long time before I could go back playing. Since then, Sabangan became less desirable on those kuruminas months.

As you look closely on the picture, familiar faces emerge. Uncle Maning to the (L) with Cherrylyn Nagal; Manang Maribel and Manong Jesito together with Manong Ric to the (R).
Notice that Nanay and Lola Tasyang were still up and able. To Uncle Tony's (R) is Auntie Flor, his wife, with Zhivago the baby.
The world was considered wide and vast then. Going to the United States or to any country was a big step - kasla saan nga agsublin. Isso siguro nga addo kami nga nag-itulod kenni Uncle Tony. There was the fear of not seeing him again. He is now in his 80s living in Los Angeles. He is still healthy pinirmi nga tumawag idtoy balay agsaludsod no anya ti balita from his beloved hometown.