Death is the reward for living. You have spent your time in the physical world with its negativity, heaviness and lonelines. Now comes the good part, when you can return home to the true existence and be welcomed back into the firect and ever-present grace of God.

Never fear dying. For to die is gain. What happens to you after you die. People have always wanted an answer to that. Ruth was prepared to leave her body and at home with the Lord.

Aspiring poet dies, 17

Tagbilaran city, Philippines- RUTH Persigas Udtohan, 17, of Booy district, this city, died of heart failure last Sept. 9 at 1:30 p.m. She was to celebrate her 18th birthday on Nov. 4.

Like a collection of brilliant sapphires, Ruth was a jewel set vibrant to the eyes. She finished her secondary education only last March at the University of Bohol High School Evening Session. Her classmates and friends could not forget her genuine smiles and her noticeable dimples.

At an early age, Ruth had displayed her God-given talents. She loved writing short stories and designing gowns She dreamed not to become a teacher, entreprenuer or an accountant. She simply wanted to be a fashion artist.

Poetry was her world. The International Library of Poetry recognized her as an internationa poet. She was picked as a semi-finalist in the International Poetry Contest last year. Her poem Kisses-her first entry- was included in the renowned book of poetry Nature's Echoes. It was also featured at the Sound of Poetry. It was chosen on the basis of her unique talent and artistic vision.

Last year however, she was diagnosed to have leukemia, said to be a genetic heriditary disease. It is also known as cancer of the blood and the blood-forming tissues. The exactc ause of most leukemia cases however remains unknown.

Udtohan is survived by her parents Arino and Paulina, sisters Rowena Udtohan-Jala and Arlene Udtohan-Pesquira and brother Leo, a freelance writer and journalist.

He death is a living testimony that God is the only unchangeable reality. Whether one is in life or death, He will be there. He is the ultimate award to Ruth and those who love Him.

Internment was held last Wednesday, Sept. 12 at the Taloto Cemetery, after a 3 p.m. requiem mass.

---with reports from BOHOL SUNDAY POST BOHOL TIMES BOHOL CHRONNICLE September 16, 2001 issues. BIDLISIW