I remember the first time I met Hoda. It was at a gathering of people from different countries in Colombia. She greeted me with so much love, as if she had known me for a long time. Every time she spoke to me, she radiated such warmth that you just wanted to be in her presence.
She was also beautiful — with that long, black hair and those bright, shining eyes.
Another moment that deeply impacted me — during those early days when I met her — was a speech she gave at that same gathering. She spoke with such fervor, wisdom, and depth that all I could feel was admiration for that servant of God.
From that point on, when I saw her again during another stage of her life of service in Chile, every time I listened to her, I learned so much: from her depth, her unwavering strength in the Faith, her unconditional love for Bahá’u’lláh, and her genuine friendship.
She was one of the very few people in my life with whom I felt a true soul connection. We could spend hours and hours talking — about profound matters of life, of service… but also laughing together. I loved her sense of humor, which was humble enough to laugh at herself.
Once, when I fell ill, she came to take care of me at home. She cooked for me, stayed by my side, and wouldn’t have left if I hadn’t insisted that she not neglect the things she had to do that day. She acted like my own family. When I shared something with her, I could feel she was truly listening. Everything felt very personal. That was one of the traits I admired most in her. And that’s how she treated everyone — with closeness and genuine presence. Truly, she was a warm light that drew people in.
Once, we organized a surprise birthday party for her. There were many people there, and she gave attention to every single one of them. You could tell how much she was loved by everyone present — young people, children, adults. I’m not saying this just because she’s no longer in this material world — that really was the atmosphere of that gathering.
I deeply admired how generous she was — with her time, her love, her resources. She was always attentive and thinking of others. One day she told me that if you think of someone, you should write or call them immediately — maybe they’re going through something and need a helping hand. I always remember that and have tried to live by it.
And so, despite the distance in recent times, I thought of her often. I would send her messages, write to her, but she wouldn’t respond. It felt strange, because she had always replied before. I kept trying, until she finally answered, and we arranged a video call. She told me about the health challenge she was facing, with so much radiance and calm… and instead of me being the support, she became that for me. Once again, she showed me her strength, and she gave me a peace and serenity that only pure souls like hers can offer.
We agreed to speak again, but that was the last time. I hold on to that memory — of an unconditional, loving friend who loved her son and husband deeply, and who had enough love in her big heart to share with many others. I was one of those people.
Grateful for her life in my life — until we meet again.