Page 6 - A Life Well-Lived Is a Beautiful Memory

Introduction

When Divina asked me to write an introduction I was perplexed. The book opens with
her excellent Preface and closes with her profoundly moving piece on the love she

shared with Bhanupong. An introduction, therefore, seemed superfluous. But she gently
nudged me, “I’m just wondering whether you would like to say something about the
book and why/how you agreed to edit it.” That I could do, but whether or not it would
serve as a fitting introduction I will leave to the judgment of the readers.

It was Corina (Maria Socorro Gochoco-Bautista) who informed me that Divina,
Bhanupong’s wife was putting together a book in memory of him and the first
anniversary of his passing. She told me to communicate directly with Divina about my

contribution. This I did; I also realized that putting together a book like this made up
of recollections and memories of family, colleagues, students, and friends would be an
emotional roller coaster ride for her. While reading the wonderful things people had to
say about Bhanupong would fill her with pride, it would also intensify the magnitude

of the loss she has suffered, and amplify the vacuum that has been created in her life.
So, I offered to help in putting together this book.

Despite my many interactions with Bhanupong over the years, we never discussed

family. Not wanting to seem intrusive, neither of us breached that private space. Thus,
apart from bits of information regarding Bhanupong’s wife and son I had received from
Corina, Divina was virtually an unknown figure. Naturally, therefore, I was surprised
when she accepted my offer without hesitation.

It began with her sending me a copy of the draft book, seeking my comments, edits, and
suggestions. We moved back and forth, often at odd hours, with our ideas, suggestions,
and counter-suggestions. Views were exchanged on what quotes and pictures to include,

and where to place them, and we agonized quite a bit on the title of the book. I also
undertook some minor edits to enhance the readability of the contributions. Along

6 A Life Well-Lived Is a Beautiful Memory