Sonia Margarita Rivera

Sonia, Margarita, Maggie or even Maguy as she was known to her loved ones was the realest person you could ask for. In a world filled with good and bad, she excelled past both. “Great” falls too short to describe the type of person she was. Even though she wasn’t a mother, she was loved by all her kids. She cared for everyone’s children as if they were her own. Some saw her as a sister, a friend, an aunt, a coworker, an employee, or a cousin. For others, she was a mother figure, a confidant, and a real boss.

She was a tough person to crack, strong willed and head strong. She had all the qualities of a leader and was never a follower. She paved her own way and didn’t care who followed or got trampled along the way. If you were loyal to her and showed her love, if you could hang with her, or if you were able to break into her inner circle, you knew you were set for life with the greatest person anyone could have in their corner. With a friend like Maggie, you didn’t need any others.

Helping others was her passion and way of life. She was a giver. For the holidays, birthday or any special occasion, no one gave better gifts than Maggie. The family was never in need of anything as long as she was around. She would ensure that you not only had what you needed and wanted but also saw that you had the things you didn’t even know you wanted. If you were cold, she would give you warmth. If you were hot, she would cool you down. Nothing was impossible for her when it came to providing for the well-being of those she loved. She never placed herself before the needs of others.

She was the epitome of genuine people. Her authenticity won’t be replicated by anyone. Those who knew her best know this well. Within a second of encountering Maggie, you would know how she instantly felt by the look on her face. Her expressions spoke a thousand words. If she was happy, you knew. If she was angry, you knew. If she was sad, excited, or whatever her mood was you knew it, without her having to say a single word. She was not one to hide her feelings. She was unapologetically honest and always spoke the truth. She wasn’t one to tell you things to make you feel good about yourself. She was there to tell you the truth, not to hurt you, but to open your eyes to the best version of yourself that you could be.

We all hurt. Some will hurt longer than others, but let’s make this world a better place. Be more giving. Be more authentic. Let’s all be real and spread the love just like Sonia Margarita Rivera did her whole life.