Philip Leone-Ganado writes:
“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” These words are attributed to Mother Theresa of Calcutta. I have seen this truth depicted in the life of Miriam Vincenti who passed away on July 11.
In the eyes of the world, Miriam was a beautiful but ordinary woman. But her humble exterior concealed a tremendous capacity to love which only those who knew her were privileged to understand.
Early in her married life Miriam experienced the death of her baby of a few weeks. This was followed immediately afterwards by her husband Peter being diagnosed with a severe degenerative disease. This young wife was faced with the challenge of looking after her husband, caring for their other young daughter and providing for the family since Peter could no longer work. Rather than turning her back on God, she turned towards Him with total abandon and it was her faith which sustained her throughout the following years.
As a secretary at St Dorothy’s Junior School, Żebbuġ, Miriam was much loved by both students and staff. Despite her difficulties, she always carried a beautiful smile which lifted everyone’s spirits. She was always so caring and ready to listen to people’s concerns. Back home, she cared lovingly for her husband and daughter during both day and night, sacrificing herself without ever complaining. This life went on for about 15 years until Peter was called to the Father’s House eight years ago.
Miriam continued to trust God and to grow closer to Him though her participation in Mass, attending prayer meetings and serving others as a Eucharistic Minister. For some time, she wrote the weekly interview with the late Fr Peter Serracino Inglott in the Sunday Times of Malta.
Unfortunately, Miriam herself was diagnosed with an illness about two years ago. She fought bravely while trusting God completely. Despite her pain, she exuded confidence to those who encountered her. Her main concern now was her daughter’s postgraduate education and later, her daughter’s upcoming wedding.
On June 15, though too weak to walk, she was wheeled up the aisle to witness the marriage of Annemarie to Manuel. She was beautifully dressed and carried a radiant smile. She knew that her life’s dream had been fulfilled. Four weeks later, she was carried up that same aisle on her journey to meet her own Heavenly Bridegroom.
My sincere sympathy goes to her daughter Annemarie and her husband Manuel, as well as to Miriam’s brothers and sisters who always loved and supported her to the very end.