The Itinerants Path

The question was all about “GIFT.” My class started the lesson with the question, “What is the greatest gift you believe God has given you in your life?” Few raised their hands to respond. I was little bit anxious whether they really understood the question or they weren’t motivated to participate. Though I was enthusiastic, I nearly lost my temper (again) to those who seemed to be indifferent inside the class. But “not this time,” I told myself.

As I was counting seconds, one boy seating at the back raised his hand and recited after I recognized him, “Life!” Somebody added, “Parents or family!” I picked those lines and started processing their answers so that I won’t lose their attention; and of course to attain my objectives.

It’s a special day for me and I don’t want to ruin it. I asked the question not because today is my birthday. It was part of my lesson plan for the day.

Indeed, life is the greatest gift that I am thankful of at the moment.When I was born; as I was told, my parents rejoiced much especially my father when he learned that his first child is a boy. Life was not only a gift to me but also to my parents.

This gift becomes an everyday choice. A FB friend sent a birthday message saying, “May you have more years to come, and more life in your years…” Some lines for me to ponder… A gift that we choose life. We choose life because God’s grace is enough for us to choose what is life giving for us. Today, I chose to live a happy day just like when we started the lesson today in our class; that’s just a part of my day’s experiences.

Text messages, calls and online greetings made me busy replying and reading emails. That made my heart fat and full of joy. This morning, I bought and served two big “puto sa bilao” in the faculty room for the teachers and I was happy. Thanks to Ms. Chona for accompanying.

A foreign call surprised me. I had to guess who was on the line until I recognized his voice. It was Fr. Vincent from Kerala, India. He is a good friend-priest who stayed with the Brothers at MAPAC few years ago. Aside from calls, text message flooded my inbox. It was so touching receiving text messages from my friends, former classmates and former students at Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC), as well. And of course, after our Morning prayer, I received my mother’s greetings.

This afternoon, I was surprised when I was told that we will have our dinner outside. A simple dinner was expected. For sure, it was simple yet, a treat of the owner of Thai Restaurant in Bayan of Marikina; she’s the Marist School Parents and Teachers’ Association (MSPTA) president at the moment. Four MSPTA officers were around aside from the Brothers of the community. We also welcomed the presence of Brother Gabe from Gen. Santos City.

Thanks to all the people who greeted me and made my day very happy. My gratitude goes also to my community for being with me.

A brother remarked, “This is now your last birthday as 20’s. Next year, you will start counting in 30s..” That made me reflect and said within, “I choose life.”

*Choose Life – 21st General Chapter of the Marist Brothers.

*Updates about our Palawan escapade to follow.

On this day..

• About the Author - 2009
• My Birthday Celebration: Life’s continuation - 2007
• Today, on my Birthday - 2006