Tuesday, October 21, 2025
As far back as I can remember, Aunt Margie — my godmother — had this one tradition with me. Every single time she saw me, she’d call me by my nickname. It started when I was a kid, of course, and like most kids, I eventually outgrew the name and worked hard to leave it behind. And I did — almost completely.
But not with Aunt Margie.
Even as I got older, she kept it going. She’d wait until we were off to the side, a little more private, and then she’d smile and say, “You know I have to call you that.” And she always did. Every family function, every gathering — her hello always came with that nickname.
But somehow, when she said it, it never bothered me. It didn’t feel like teasing or anything awkward. It felt like love — like something just between us. It became our little tradition, and honestly, I came to expect it. It made me feel remembered , special and loved.
That’s the kind of warmth Aunt Margie brought into my life. She didn’t just say things — she made you feel them. I’ll always carry that with me and I’ll miss that nickname now more than ever.
Love you, rest in peace. From Santos Rivera Jr, always known to you as “Puti”