I’ve been asked by family members to share the eulogy I delivered at my Grandmother’s funeral service. I had index cards with my notes because I wasn’t sure I would be able to get through it. But, I was surprisingly calm when the time came for me to speak because my husband stood with me and I spoke from the heart. I was honored to share these thoughts.

I started with this poem, which is adapted from Bertolt Brecht’s Hay Hombres. It was the first thing that came to mind when I was asked to speak.

Hay mujeres que luchan un dia y son buenas.  Hay otras que luchan un ano y son mejores.  Hay quienes luchan muchos anos y son muy buenas.  Pero hay las que luchan toda la vida, como Genoveva Soto, ellas son las imprescindibles.

My grandmother was the matriarch of the Soto family. She had 8 children, 23 grandchild, 48 great grandchildren, and 14 great-great grandchildren. Ninety-three of us will always carry a little of piece of her in us. I didn’t appreciate the bond we share with our parents and grandparents until I became a mother and started to notice the traits we share and pass down from generation to generation.

Some of the traits I admired about my grandmother are:

Her love of family – When you spoke or saw my Grandmother, she gave you her bendicion and a warm kiss. She was someone who made you feel loved

Her strength and strong will – Even though her body was not cooperating, she fought to remain alert and communicative during the 3 weeks she spent in the CCU

Her Puerto Rican pride – Despite living in NYC for many years, she spoke only Spanish

Her faith – When I slept over her house, I remember her praying softly for family, friends and neighbors before she went to bed. If you listened closely, you could hear her mentioning people by name

Growing up, her home was the place our family gathered. There was always music, dancing, food and kids running around. I looked forward to the weekends and spending time with family in her home. Even though my grandmother is no longer with us, we should carry on with the example she set for us.

We often say  we’re Soto Strong because of my grandmother. She was a role model for us who will continue to influence our family as it grows for the coming generations. She will always be loved and remembered for her generosity and quirky personality. She liked to make us laugh – blowing kisses in selfies or wearing silly hats. Let’s continue to make her proud by teaching our sons and daughters what it means to be Soto Strong.

God Bless You Abuelita