Genesis Rivas
One of my favorite memories with Papa is sitting beside him, watching novelas. He’d get so caught up in the drama—laughing, reacting, throwing in his own commentary—and I’d be right there with him.
He always said, “Music is life. If you’re feeling down, put on some music and let it lift you.” And he lived that truth every day. To him, music wasn’t just background noise—it was healing, energy, and soul.
As his only daughter—and the youngest—Papa took it upon himself to teach me strength. He made sure I knew how to stand up for myself, to be respected and to show respect in return. He wanted me to know my worth and to never settle for less than I deserved.
The truth is, we clashed sometimes—our tempers and personalities were too alike not to. We were both stubborn, both passionate. But as I’ve grown, I’ve come to realize that behind every argument, every lesson, every word, was his deep love and his desire to see me become my best self. He always wanted the best for me, even when it didn’t feel that way in the moment.
He also taught something beautiful to all three of us—my brothers and me. He always said we were a triangle: strong, balanced, and connected. If one of us was at odds with another, the triangle was broken. To Papa, it didn’t matter who was oldest or youngest—we were equals. Birth order meant nothing. What mattered was love, unity, and respect between us. He instilled in us the importance of staying together, supporting each other, and always keeping that triangle whole.
I miss Papa more than words can ever truly capture. He built something strong in our hearts—and that triangle will stand, because of him.
Love you always Papa
Your Daughter Genesis
