Rebeca, better known as “La Niña” Rebe, was born in a beautiful city in Colombia, called Montería, where the Sinú River flows impetuously while jealously guarding the Macondian stories of its inhabitants.
She was barely 15 years old when she met the one who would become the love of her life and soon after she left with him for new lands to explore a world full of adventures.
Romantic, dreamy, intelligent, and cunning woman. Always ready to help those in need and with a trigger on her tongue to shoot out the perfect speech when something was upsetting her.
Ipiales, Riohacha, and Bogota were some of the cities where she had to live due to her husband’s occupation, who was a high-ranking military man known and respected for his tough character.
Finally, she settled in the plains of Casanare, welcoming in her magnificent ranch all those who came to visit her.
Splendid breakfasts were part of the stay. More than fifteen grandchildren visited her house every summer, and as if that were not enough hustle and bustle, they invited their friends, so considering one guest per grandchild, the group easily reached up to thirty teenagers of boundless energy.
But how was it possible for “La Niña” Rebe to handle these large groups of guests without going nuts? Among her usual lecture, what no one was able to see, was her power to control all the logistics, capable of keeping an eye on all the processes and their corresponding supply chain. She was undoubtedly the best manager.
Ohhhh…Blanca, get the boys up.
– I’m coming Niña Rebe
Ohhhh…Sonia, ask what they are having for breakfast.
– Yes Niña Rebe
Ohhh… Camilo, have they brought the milk from the other house pen?
– Yes Niña Rebe
Mijo, did you bring the bread from town?
– Yes Niña Rebe
Ohhh…Flor, put each one of them their towel on the bed and tell them to bring their dirty clothes.
– Yes Niña Rebe
Everything was going around “La Niña” Rebe. She never missed a single detail. There was no limit to her care and affection, and no limit to her usual sermon.
– Why are you going to town, there’s nothing to do there.
– Don’t wear make-up, you look prettier going natural.
– Don’t go around with boyfriends, you must keep your place and respect yourself.
And the list could go on and on, but today these so-called “cantaletas” are still echoing in the ears of these young people, now adults. If we had listened more to “La Niña” Rebe, if we had respected her wisdom more, the story would be different.
Hours and hours, lying in her hammock doing crossword puzzles, something no one could beat her at, reading romance novels or faithful to her prayers, always praying for the welfare of each and every member of her family. Praying the rosary, she would say a Hail Mary for each grandchild, another for each son, another for each daughter-in-law, each nephew, and each brother.
Oh Niña Rebe, what would become of the family if it were not for your prayers? Devoted mother, loving grandmother, resilient wife. It is an honor to be your granddaughter!
Written by Layla Garrido