Former President Cory Aquino, who passed away early this morning, was exemplary as a leader, because she led by example and she put the lessons we learned from her example right where they mattered: in the hearts of her people.
In her people's hearts, her vision, her rectitude, her moral leadership and the grace of her character, will stay. There these cannot be stolen.
We have a stronger hold on the freedom that she restored in our country, because she dared not relent when its enemies tried to snatch it away.
Cory insisted on governing on the basis of what was right and wrong, and to hell with the consequences.
Our eyes are clear in the face of the craven, the corrupt and the opportunists, because Cory showed it was possible to lead, and to live, by sticking to what we know to be right and just.
A lot of inconvenience there, of course, but she showed us it can be done.
We will miss her clarity and simplicity, and the quality of her devotion to her country. When it was time to go, she did, without fuss.
I liked the grace of Cory Aquino, her utter lack of need to cower or grovel, the quietness she radiated, and the power that comes from a strong sense of self and commitment to the Lord's commandments.
A light has gone out of our lives. Even if only in our hearts, let her light shine on.
