Lolo Mon’s first letter to his only ‘apo’
Dearest Mari,
This is the first letter that Lolo Mon has written to you, as we usually see each other over video chats. Even though we’re far apart, I want you to know how special you are to me.
You are my one and only apo, and words can’t express the joy you’ve brought into my life. Your birth was a ray of sunshine during the pandemic, even though you were all the way in Brisbane with your Dada and Mamu looking after you.
The day you finally visited us in Manila, when you were just 1-and-a-half years old, was one of the happiest days of my life. I want you to know that I love you to the moon and back—yes, to infinity and beyond! Watching you grow into such a beautiful, smart and cheerful 3-and-a-half-year-old fills my heart with pride and puts the brightest smile on my face.
One of my favorite memories is the time you imitated me, drawing on a sponge like you were designing a glass sculpture, just like me! You were only 2, and yet your creativity was already shining through. In fact, I’ve turned one of your designs into a real glass sculpture. I am so happy to see your love for drawing, coloring and making things at such a young age. You have the Orlina creativity in your blood, and I hope you will always follow your passions, whatever they may be.
Please know that Lolo Mon will always be here for you, supporting you in everything you do. I thank God every day for blessing me with you in my life. I pray for your good health, safety and protection, and that you grow up with the grace, kindness and wisdom that your wonderful parents are teaching you.
You are my precious Mari—my beloved princess—loved and adored more than you can imagine.
With all my love,
Lolo Mon
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Ramon Orlina is the grandfather of Mari, daughter of Naesa Orlina-Miso and RJ Miso. Known as the “Father of Philippine Glass Sculpture” for his pioneering work with glass, Orlina is a staunch advocate for artists’ rights.
