For the love of family

“Having somewhere to go is home. Having someone to
love is family. Having both is a blessing.”

Last Saturday, July 1, 2017, the “Karabao” Quitugua family started off their family reunion with the offering of the Holy Mass at San Jose Church, officiated by Fr. James S. Balajadia. Immediately after the Mass, family members gathered at the Garapan Central Park for lunch and genealogical tracing introductions.

Gracing the family reunion was the presence of two surviving fourth generation patriarch of the Karabao clan, Nan Elang Quitugua and Nan Nita Aguon. Being with several generations of family roots was indeed a solemn moment and truly a blessing.

Such event and opportunity would probably not have happened without the persistence, patience and determination of a group of grand and great grandchildren. For almost two years, this committee of bright and dedicated young men and women endured frustrations, disappointments and emotional breakdown as they went about with their planning. They argued amongst themselves, to the extent that I thought the reunion may not take place at all.

Amazingly, however, they remained focused and resolved to take their planning to the finish line, and indeed they made what was seemingly an impossibility possible. I owe these committee members my profound appreciation and deepest respect for making it possible for the “Karabao” family to finally be together in one place. Nothing is more precious in a lifetime than to be together with your extended loved ones. What an astonishing and priceless experience! Of all the events in my life, the reunion of our family was my “Terms of Endearment,” a poignant moment to forever remember.

To all the “Karabao” Quitugua family reunion committee members, volunteers and sponsors, I can’t thank you enough for your perseverance and sacrifices. I can only hope that the resounding accomplishment of your devotion will bring intrinsic meaning to your efforts in successfully reuniting our family.

I must not forget to mention our amazingly talented emcee. Quite honestly, I was completely mesmerized by his vocal renditions of many popular local favorite songs. That was a sucker for me, but now I finally figured out what was the “fatal attraction” quality that my niece Rocca was drawn to. Rep. Vinny, you sure mixed it well for the enjoyment of our family. Thank you!

I took home with me a statement that was whispered in my ears by one of the nephews just as we were parting ways. He said, “Uncle Dan, don’t ever forget that family is just like branches of a tree, we all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one.” What an overpowering descriptive valediction message.

On behalf of our families, let us all rejoice over the privilege of life.

Daniel O. Quitugua
Kannat Tabla, Saipan