Fear of Flying

A year ago our colleague retired after 28 years of dedicated service. Twice a year he received a perfect attendance award. He received a total of 53 certificates attesting to his commitment to duty, rain or shine five days a week. To him, the show must go on. The only time he was out of office was when he was on sick leave. No typhoon or any other calamity could deter him. Even on holidays when he was given an assignment he reports for duty without complain. Some resented him every time he received an award since it became obvious he was too dedicated and consistent while they were just hoping, envious and sour-graping. On the day of his retirement, his detractors says - his life was monotonous. Day in and day out he reported for duty on time until he retired. Some people can’t appreciate achievement if others did it but if they were the achievers of the same effort, they shouted to high heavens how excellent they were.

Hostages

Last weekend, a major TV network Senior reporter, her two cameramen and a professor were being held hostages by a still unconfirmed group of muslim rebels. Reportedly, they went there without the knowledge of military and police authorities who has that province in their area of responsibility in Mindanao. Unlike their previous sorties in that war torn province, they kept their mission in secret ostensibly to make an exclusive interview of those rebels expecting to out-scoop their rival network. On the second day of their activity, the news was in the papers, broad sheet and tabloid alike, in tv and radio broadcasts except the reporters own network. Apparently, they want to deny their reporters captivity as much as they could to prevent the exposure of their folly. When this can’t be prevented anymore, they acknowledge the news report and pleaded with other media network not to exploit the situation so as not to jeopardized the safety of their crew. Different opinions were aired by different parties, some were saddened by this unfortunate event, others were joyful since the kidnapped team were staffs of a major power company most consumers hated. Taking an objective view and rendering my own unbiased opinion, I tried my best to remain in the middle. The issue here is not whether I liked or disliked the captive crews but rather the act of hostage-taking and the events that immediately preceded it. First, the reporters desire to bring the news to the people… the rebels grievance against the government, their ideology if any or simply to gain media mileage. Second, did they considered their personal safety, the opinions and support of their families and employers before embarking in their effort? Third, is the trip worth the effort after carefully weighing and considering the dangers they have to go through in getting it? On my first question, there’s no problem with that. They have done that before in pursuance of their desire to bring the NPA’s ideology, grievance against the government and access to media to attain their goal. On the second, a reporter of a major broadsheet revealed she was supposed to be in that team. It’s her personal desire to be included in that team. When she asked her boss’s permission, her boss says, “NO; It’s very risky. The effort is not worth it.”, still she tried hard to go with the team. She told her daughter she’s going. Her daughter refused, telling her just like what her boss said. She insisted, she’s going. When the daughter sensed, mom can’t be prevented from going… she decided to go with her mother. If anything wrong happened to mother, they would at least be together. If mother gonna get killed, she’ll die with her. Then mother Back Off. On my last question and the most disturbing one, I have dissected it in separate levels so objectivity can be served. On the professional side, getting the news and the truth to the people is a noble motive for any media practitioner worth his salt. On a strictly personal level, having achieved where others can only dreamed off is a monumental achievement. I don’t care if others can do it, attempt to do it, nobody does it… I’ll do it because it’s my personal desire and mission to achieve it. “It’s a personal satisfaction to go “where angels fear to thread.” On the economic side, the desire to outperform the competition, assures anyone his/her continues prestige and economic return that goes with it. A very high profile performer in any field of endeavor can command the highest price the market can offer. Having established a lofty reputation only emboldens and raises the level of hunger and thirst for a higher degree of achievement. I would humbly conclude after a logical analysis that what leads to this hostage taking was the result of pushing the envelope too far.

Dressed To Hell

Several years back our manager brought us in tow in a social function accorded to a retiring pilot when he commanded his last revenue flight on his 60th birthday. I was in command of the afternoon shift composed of seven people, eight myself included. To make our presence felt, I assigned two staffs to remain on post and the six of us went out to accompany our boss. Refreshments were served before the main course followed. Guests kept on arriving and flight deck crews (captain and first officers) with scheduled flights left after taking their meals. Crews who flew their last flight for the day went directly to this gathering and enjoyed the exquisite cuisine. Our group who were on duty seldom attend gatherings and social functions like this except during Christmas parties and company anniversaries came just like taking our meals at the company canteen. One just point his order, place them in his tray, pay the cashier and find a space where he can do his thing. In this social function, things were quite different. Pleasantries were exchanged between close and not so close friends, fellow employees from other divisions in our department, employees greeting big bosses who seldom knew us individually and personally. Greetings were perfunctory activity, not out of sincerity. Two or three of us who finished our meals earlier left to cover the two who were left behind and allow them to have a hearty meal just like us who enjoyed it earlier. The rest of us remained to await the arrival of the late comers. I happen to be separated from our group when a friend from other division engage me in a long animated conversation. When it was over I inched my way to the door to be able to get back to my post. Still a few faces away from the door, I meet this pilot and said, “ I want a glass of red wine.” Pointing the table where the drinks were, I told him… “Sir, it’s over there.” Then he pressed further, “Get me a glass, I’m Captain Barbell.” “No sir, please ask the waiter to get you one. I’m supervisor Gene Yu.”, I answered back. “Sorry, I thought you’re the waiter.”, he apologizes. Accepting his apology, I told him…”No problem, people do make mistakes. Pilots crashed planes when they make mistakes in the cockpit. Good thing sir, you make your mistake on ground.” After that exchange, I discreetly approached my boss and told him I’m leaving to return to my post to join the boys there. He gave me the green light to leave him and so I went. On another occasion, a weather briefing was scheduled at 10 PM and our boss can not attend. He left the office after attending the 5 PM briefing and delegated the next meeting to me. In this meeting, plans whether to evacuate the planes to outstations or tie them down, flights from out stations whether to hold them there or allow them to take off or simply to load additional fuel in case of diversion, what each department or division was supposed to do, so when the coming tropical storm makes a landfall or pass through our stations minimum collateral damage is done. When he’s already home, he took the trouble to make further instructions. The meeting will be attended by no less than the VP of Flight Operations, Managers under our department and other departments directly under the SVP, Senior Vice President of Operations Group. Sometimes, the SVP attend this meetings unannounced. Seeing me in rugged attire and casual clothing day in and day out, I was told to attend in formal attire. I must be either in long sleeve or at least with collar. “Copied your instructions loud and clear and rest assured it’s as if you...yourself is attending this meeting.” To make a long story short, I did attend the meeting. It lasted more or less one and a half hour. I took important notes with special emphasis to those that concerned our division. Snacks were served before meeting was adjourned. I cascaded my notes to the boys and when I reported for work the following day, I was summoned to his office. He asked me to appraised him what happened in yesterday’s meeting. I told him, it’s in my notes I placed at his table. “ Did you not find it or is there something wrong with it?, I asked him. “ I found it and there’s nothing wrong with it.”, he said. “ I thought I screwed up that’s why you wanted me here. ” Nothing wrong with that. I just want to know if you attended in proper attire… did you come in long sleeve or with collar?”. “ Both. “, I replied. “I came wearing my leather jacket, like those worn by motorcycle riders riding their big bikes.”, I added. All he could say was “S*it.”, almost falling from his chair.

FG, Fool Gentleman

My present employer is my third since my first job. In this span of time, I’ve been under a dozen bosses with different personalities. Just like a professor rating his students, I would rate them on their overall qualities. The average type I’ll not discuss much but the extremes, i.e., the excellent and mediocre will be dissected like a scientist examining his specimen under a microscope. Mike was my first manager. He was happy go lucky and subordinates were treated like members of his family. This is understandable since his company was a small entity with less than 30 staffs in its payroll. I was happy with him and my colleagues such that when I requested to be released two months short of one year service I felt like an orphan. My next manager was Freddie. He was all right, fair and implemented orders from higher ups and sees to it everybody gets his fair share. Bert and Rudy were my next two division managers. They were product of the old school hence were relatively strict but reasonable. Alex became my first administrative manager since I was posted in the field under his command but functionally, I’m not under him since he doesn’t have the technical know how to do or understand how our work is being done. Under his command, we felt like we’re under a military commander since he emphasized the value of sprit de corps all the time. Either we all live or die together. One for all and all for one. I was under him for almost nine years and all those years I had no problem with him nor him with me. As to my colleagues, he was involve by virtue of the principle of “command responsibility” when one of our staff used our company service vehicle during the unholy hours of the evening and figured in a vehicular accident. The car undertook major repairs before it was put back to serviceable use again. Alex got off the hook, but the subordinate was grounded for a month. My next administrative manager was Jun; taking over from Alex when Mrs. Alex sequestered her husband following the discovery of a certain Mrs. Alex II. Observing our code of silence, no one got the balls to confirm Mrs. Alex Original’s suspicion. Jun was a high profile boss who came like a conquering hero. Like VP Gloria Macapagal Arroyo taking over from Pres. Erap. Before he took over, he was introduced to the whole community, the governor, the mayor, the head of offices, the provincial commander, all the honorable in the capital town were introduced like foreign dignitaries. They were made to understand – any request for accommodation can be accommodated by Mr. National Flag Carrier. Comparing previous bosses to this guy… they’re all second rate, trying hard. He was a superb dresser; his people skills were excellent. Like a politician. One incident between me and him strained and soured our subordinate-boss relationship. One time I was still working my backlog due to successive power interruptions. It was still an hour before quitting time when everybody were boarding our service car except me. We were invited to a town fiesta (festivities) when Jun came over and asked me to join the group. I told him, “Boss, I’ll just stay behind so I can receive all incoming messages so early tomorrow we don’t have any backlog. Confirmation of requested seats favor our overbooked passengers were among those expected messages. He said, “ Shut down the radio equipments and if anything happens I’ll just explain in your behalf tomorrow.” I replied, “ Boss, I’d rather do it right today than explain tomorrow because I screwed up today.” He stared at me, looked me from head to foot and without saying a word left with the entire staff. I was left alone, did all my pending job, closed my office (I have my own room with lock and key apart from the sales people’s office), went home and rest. The following day, I learned from my friends… Jun was mad at me for refusing his invitation and joining the group. There was a veiled threat - I better be careful or else…I just shrugged my shoulders and jokingly told my friends “ he be careful, not me. I’m doing nothing, so what should I be careful about?” Two or three days later, I learned… my friends were prevented from talking to me, drinking with me, any form of personal or even official inter-action will be sanctioned. I simply told my friends, “Just do what’s best for you. Don’t worry about me. I can take care of myself.” One time, while he was in the city attending a meeting-workshop, we were watching a big time boxing match on tv and were having rounds of beer. A former friend who was so intimidated by him reported the incident when be returned. My drinking buddy was reprimanded not to do that again. Otherwise, he will not be recommended for future training that were lined up so they’ll be considered for promotion. He wants me out of the loop. An outsider. Not satisfied with that, he attempted to embarrass me in front of a generous customer. A customer who purchased a plane ticket called up the canteen earlier and ordered “refreshment and snack for the airline staff.” When it was delivered I happen to be at the ticket office turning over an urgent message for him to act and reply immediately. My friends and the customer offered me to get mine but before they’re through with what they’re saying… Jun told me to get only one, not more and leave immediately. This guy is trying to put me in the defensive and I promised he’ll not succeed. I don’t get mad. I get even. I thank the customer and my friends but before leaving left a message, “It’s nice when offered a meal, but nicer when you’re footing the bill. There’s no such thing as free lunch. Sooner or later, you’ll pay for it.” Days passed, months and after a year… he was transferred to another posting. Ronnie took over from Jun. My new manager is straight and honest. Unlike Jun, Ronnie does not even drink or smoke. His routine is Home-Office-Home. Under his command, the company was able to save substantial amount from supplies alone. Even overtime was kept to a minimum. Once, Jun’s staff called up to inquire if there is really a retroactive rice allowance and when it is to be released. I told the guy.. it was given two months ago it’s now history. He can’t believe what he just learned. They were told, it’s not released simultaneously. I suggested, he better contact Jun (and Ronnie’s) director and inquire if indeed theirs is yet to be released. The guy filed a leave and verified from Jun’s immediate boss and found out Jun misappropriated the money. Upon learning this, I have mixed emotions about my former boss. For all his pomp and show, all of the elegance displayed he’s nothing but a clown in his desire for recognition and attention. He filed for a loan to cover the amount he misappropriated and before it was released, he was audited and found guilty of fiduciary matters. He was fired and lost his job. And before this happened, he left his wife and lived with Mrs. Jun II. This must be poetic justice. One misfortune after another, this manager was living in hypocrisy. He has feet of clay after all. What was once an icon of popularity, he succeeded in leading his life to obscurity. Who once was adored as a conquering hero is no more than a fool gentleman, an FG.

Gracey and Laura

GRACEY and LAURA, OFW

Friends. Colleagues. Both IT professionals. Separated more than a year, reunited and lived in paradox after fulfilling their dreams. They planned, decided and moved to put to use their professional skills where it should be. With more than enough experience in a multinational IT company, they ventured to make their fortune away from their homeland. First to leave was Laura. Five months later, she convinced her friend to consider joining here there. Her recruiter was legal, taken care of her well-being, considerate and even look after the welfare of her dependents she left behind in the country. Gracey was thankful and happy for her friend not to be victimized and fell prey to an illegal recruiter. Meanwhile, Gracey’s own recruiter personally came here more than a month after Laura left. Her recruiter wants to personally talk to her parents and convince them to allow their daughter to go with him for an overseas posting. On top of the assurance for a permanent residency, her parents and siblings can join her there if they decided to do so. Constraint would be the weather since ours is not like theirs. In winter, the climate is biting cold and on summer, the climate is oven-hot. Unlike Saudi Arabia, where the culture strictly observe the muslim faith and the teachings of Allah, this country is similar to the liberal culture of United Arab Emirates where western culture and entertainment can be freely enjoyed in their cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Gracey told her recruiter she’ll consider the offer. Four months after her recruiter left, she submitted her credentials after consulting her parents, inquiring Laura – if the documents required to be submitted were similar to hers. After getting an assurance from her friend, they were the same papers and documents she submitted, Gracey decided to follow without second thought. Terms of the offer were “ No placement Fee to be collected” and it’s a “Direct Hire”. The only expenses Gracey incurred were for Passporting, Visa Fee and of course, medical and briefing fee, all similar to Laura’s. Less than two months later, the first of two confirmation packets of documents from the government agency of that country arrived. Gracey was assured that the offer was valid and the recruiter is legitimate and can enter into a contract. Additional documents were to be prepared aside from the ones submitted earlier. The second packet arrived more than a month later. Specific instructions to submit herself to physical/medical examination to that country’s authorized medical center/hospital and to attend a ”briefing” in our government agency task to brief and orient departing OFW’s on what to expect on that foreign country’s culture and peculiarities. A month later, the physical/medical examination was completed and after a week she appeared at that foreign country’s embassy to get her visa. Finding her papers were complete and in order, she easily got her visa. She was given a six-month period to leave and report to that foreign country. More than two months later, her recruiter-employer personally came to assure her parents -their daughter is in good hands and he came to fetch and escort Gracey to gain entry to their country without hassle. Her recruiter was truly sincere, caring and took good care of her. The recruiter’s family- his sister, parents, close family friends and office colleagues were at the arrival area of their country’s Port of Entry awaiting their arrival. Gracey was reassured her arrival begins on a happy note. Two months after her arrival, her friend Laura came and visited her and serves as a reunion or sort since they’ve last seen each other in the Philippines. Less than three months after leaving her native country, she complied with the first condition to gain a permanent residency status. Gracey exchanged “ I DO”s with her recruiter-employer-former fiancé and now husband, JEFF. Laura was her maid of honor, (she married her soldier husband a year earlier). While Laura came home almost a year and a half after she left the country, Gracey took a little longer.. two years and two months. Although they’re residing in separate cities, friends keep in touch with each other. When Gracey came home for a short vacation last January, I asked her what she did. She simply told me. “ God had been so kind to me. He gave me everything. I listened to my parents so he blessed me. And most of all, I asked God to give this one to my mother.”, “ And what is that?” I asked. “ I prayed to God and asked him to give my mother a handsome and loving son-in-law. And he did. He did not fail me. Thank you God for everything.” Gracey said.

I knew their story. Gracey is Melanie’s (my sister-in-law) niece”. She stayed with us while employed at the Call Center here in the city. Truly, Gracey and Laura are great OFW’s – Outstanding Filipina Wives. And green card holders too.

Melanie

Many years back while still courting my future wife, we often have her younger sister in tow. She was about eight years old then. She find me funny and enjoyed my company and would often asked her elder sister to allow her to be with us every time we go to church, outing on the beach, going to the movies and even if I'm just visiting her sister at home. She grew up getting whatever she wants from me and my wife and often asked small favors were requested which she usually got. It seems, she wouldn't take "NO" for an answer. When she was a young teenager she would bring my children in tow every time she comes to us during summer vacation. She love to play the role of a teacher, a mother, a baby-sitter rolled into one. My children find her strict and caring. And not without good reasons. Their mother, my mother-in-law was relatively strict and disciplinarian. When all of her siblings were already married, having their own family and growing children, she would still look after their well being. At present, she has 13 nephews and nieces from 4 siblings (our children included). When she returned from her first vacation from work in the Middle East , she has gifts and presents for everyone. If one of her siblings is having financial difficulty and in need of help, she would lend a hand. It happened to us once. When all of my children were simultaneously in college (the eldest is graduating and the youngest is a freshman), she gave us additional amount so everybody won't miss enrollment that school year. Every time she arrives from vacation and return to her work after her sojourn, she asked me to fetch and escort her from the Airport to either our or her brother's house in the city. When she married her fiance almost a decade ago, my wife acted as the mother since my parents-in-law were both deceased at that time. Prior to her marriage, she requested me to intercede in her behalf to explain to her sister (my wife) why she is marrying this guy. My wife is against having this guy as a brother-in-law. She says he won't turn out to be a good husband. As requested, I raised the issue to my wife and discussed the merits of the marriage. Apparently, she has a change of heart and eventually allowed her younger sister to marry her fiance. After the wedding and honeymoon, husband and wife took different flights to different destinations. The husband landed in Dubai , the wife in Jeddah. They would take simultaneous month-long vacation to play their role as husband and wife. In late 2002, my sister-in-law was due to give birth to her first born. She requested my wife to be present during this ordeal. She gave birth to a son. Less than a month later, the new-born died of pneumonia. She was broken hearted and soon returned to her work abroad. The couple took simultaneous vacation again in 2004 and in May of 2005, she became a mother for the second time. This time, it's a girl. Since then, she stopped working to do her motherly duties. Her husband remained a modern day hero, an OFW. It seems all the women in their family gave up their careers to be a full time mother. It runs in the family. First, my mother-in-law. Then my wife. Next, my wife's other younger sister. And now the youngest, Melanie. They're all dedicated mothers. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL OF YOU.

FATHER AND SON CONFLICT

Young children used to follow and grew obedient to their parent's desire. Without complain. They could easily understand what father and mother means just by mere stare at them. That's what we were when we were growing up. Nowadays it's different. Children are hard-headed. And they're not completely to blame. Parents play an important role in their children's development during their formative years. What these children learned during these years, were retained the most and the hardest to correct if not corrected early. Many parents think, the more hard-headed their children as youngsters, the tougher guys they become. Wittingly or unwittingly, they're making monster out of their children. Tolerant of their children's antics, they're so proud to display their children to relatives, friends and co-employees thinking their children's tantrums and mannerism will bring them a fortune if discovered by talent coordinators looking for would-be child actors and actresses. Seeing children like them in public places as malls, fast-foods chains, trains and even churches, I felt like whacking them if they were my children. I'm not saying my children were the finest in the land. Far from it. What I'm saying is, how did their parents guided them in growing up? Some dogs are more behave than these children. Are they willing to accept that some dogs have higher IQs than their children or they (parents) themselves? If they answered "yes" then - NO Problem, No questions. I raise my hands. Complete surrender. No argument. But if they want to argue, then all I ask is to bring their children and I'll bring a trained dog and let them perform their acts and compare who'll come out more behave, more obedient and disciplined. Many in the audience would say, "the dog is intelligent, obedient and disciplined". And their children? Probably Idiots or Morons. When my children were growing up, my wife used to pinched them in their thighs when they misbehaved. Once, my daughter broke a flower vase, my wife slapped her hands with a slipper. When my sons quarreled over their toys, she got a hammer and let them break their toys. When there's a visitor at home, no one is to cross where the visitor and either I or my wife were seated. When it's unavoidable, they have to say "Makikiraan Po" (Please excuse me, may I pass), when it's meal time, they have to stop whatever they're doing and everybody must be at the table. All of them must be at home by 6:00 in the evening. At age 6, they attended their kindergarten class and at 7, their primary grades. Here, my youngest was the most daring. One day, I was at home waiting for them for lunch. They arrived from school simultaneously since those dismissed from their classes earlier will have to wait for their elder siblings to be dismissed. Their mother was now serving food at the table and his three elder siblings were already seated waiting for us to join them. Before I could rise from my chair reading a newspaper, he approached me and asked if I could help him solve his problem. "Father, I have a problem. Can you please help me solve this? I replied, "Yes, why not? What's that?" He took out from his bag a book, allegedly it was a book but from the look of it, it's not thicker than a komiks magazine. So, it must not be a book. I took it from him and examined what it really is. Wow, the book has many pages missing. The front page was already page 37 and almost the same number of pages were missing at the back. I interrogated him what happened and if he received it in that condition. My boy says, it's already in that condition when distributed. And the teacher is demanding it be replaced with a new one otherwise their grading sheet (or was it card) will not be released. I asked him if he is telling the truth. He said "yes" and added, "If im not telling the truth, I might as well die now, or don't send me to school anymore. I took his word with a grain of salt. I wrote a letter addressed to his teacher and told him to give it to her. There's no problem if I have to replace it. I can donate even several copies of that book. What I don't like and won't tolerate is for some teachers to demand a replacement for a torn book more untidy than a dried fish wrapper and was already in that condition when it was distributed. It's a matter of principle. That simply cannot be. To put the komiks err book in a presentable condition, we took it to a shoemaker and have it sewed and covered with a new folder looking like a new scrap book. After our lunch, (my wife and 3 other children took their lunch ahead of us), I told them to go back to school for their afternoon session. I told my 3 children not to intercede in their youngest sibling's behalf. I want him to express himself. Otherwise, if things doesn't turn right, either me or my wife will be summoned to appear before her at school. What happened as I learned later, was that the repaired book was accepted and no replacement was demanded and needed after all. But, the teacher wants to talk to my wife in the coming PTA meeting. The meeting did take place. My wife was told by the teacher that all she wanted was for the pupil to take care of the book distributed to them. Her desire was simply to scare them to be careful in handling the book. I just smiled and just like my wife, said "Explanation Accepted". My other son, the elder one was already a college graduate and working when we have that serious argumentation and debate. He raised issues I can hardly defend since it's about my philosophy against his. My stand is... To each his own since we have different personalities. He asked me if I know where I'm destined after my physical body died and what remains is my spirit. Well, I said.. "Where else, if not in heaven". He simply laughed and said, How do I know I'm getting there and what assurance do I have to say so. I felt my ego was pricked and my pride was deflated. I felt so flat and so low. He added, "you haven't even read the bible in its entirety and yet you're saying you're heaven bound". Of course, I won't take it sitting down. "I never did anything wrong to my fellow man, never took advantage of anybody, never enrich myself at the expense of another, and tried my best to obey the ten commandments". He retorted, "Not all those who tried have succeeded; and breaking anyone of the ten commandments breaks them all. He's grinning bordering on sarcasm and I can't allow this to continue. And he delivers the final kill. You've read your book THE ART OF WAR, as if it were your bible, your gospel. I've seen you reading that book before I was in college and now I'm three years graduate and working you're still reading that book. "Will lessons learned in that book bring you to heaven"? he asked. " You're full of fears, hatred, competition, survival and killer instinct such that you've forgotten what's love and salvation is all about". Instinctively, I counter attacked. "Stop it. You don't know how I grew, how I lived and survived that's why you're saying like that, "If you only knew, you won't be saying all these things. I have survived life's many battles, many wars that's why I'm still alive. Otherwise, I'm long gone. Momentarily, he keep silent. Then he continued his attack, albeit with less firepower.. "Why don't you go with me and listen to our pastor's teachings. After hearing him, you might have a new outlook and view life from a different perspective". I remained silent. My mind is engaged. I'm in deep thought planning my counter offensive similar to what the Israelis did to the Arabs in the 1973 YOM KIPPUR WAR. I carefully choose the artilleries, the regrouping of my disorganized forces before conducting my make or break assault. Just like in his younger years, he knew when to contain my anger when I’m becoming red-hot and ready to erupt. "You're losing your cool, you're losing your composure", he said and approaching me kissing me in the forehead. Then he continued, "I only wanted you to be closer to god. Unlike what I often heard from you "KEEP YOUR FRIENDS CLOSE, YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER". Then he patted me in the back and left.

The Pastor

While still in college, my eldest son was already attending lectures on Scriptures. This group of religious young people call their activities Christian Communities Program, CCP and the members were known as CCPians. As a father, knowing your son is in pursuit of the teachings of the Lord felt confident he is treading the right path to manhood and will be guided by spiritual teachings like the followers of Jesus Christ. Most young people would rather enjoy their lives while still young and take advantage of their being under the care and protection of their parents. Some even goes astray, joining classmates, gang mates in unhealthy and prohibited activities as fraternities and illegal drugs. It was reassuring to learn your elder son is serving as a good example to his younger sibling, also a young boy, two hears his junior. Not long after, his younger brother followed suit. Soon, they were attending lectures and lessons together and on some occasions they go to depressed communities giving whatever the group has collectively and voluntarily contributed and distribute them to residents of these underprivileged communities. Two Christmas seasons they visited the inmates of a leper colony in a town north of Manila and gave them token souvenirs and goods that made these patients/inmates feel they still belong to society and people wish them well to return to our fold. Charitable activities were regularly done by these youngsters to raise whatever amount for an honorable purpose. Until he graduated in college and his subsequent employment with his first job he kept coming back to his fellow CCPians and was in high gear during Christmas attending midnight mass, joining and singing in the choir group. Then he transferred to his second job and present employer in a bank in Mandaluyong City , Philippines . During his probationary period, he was asked by his seniors if he is willing to join their Christian congregation that regularly study the words of God and be a renewed Christian. He told them he is already a member of a Christian group since college, was and still attending this group. Anyway, since it's also a group that praises and worship Jesus Christ, why not. So, he attended this group called Christian Commission Fellowship or CCF. Soon after, I began hearing him lessons and lectures on the Bible and one time he asked me to join him in the lecture to be presided by their CCF resource speaker Brother Ray An Fuentes. Topic discussed was financial security based on the bible and the teachings of Christ. I was impressed by the intensity of this speaker. I thought he was just a has been showbiz personality desperately trying to make a comeback after not making it big in the United States and Canada. His speaking engagement was lined up.. here and abroad that will keep him busy for the next several months. This speaker was mobbed by the crowd after he was through with his speech. The head pastor of CCF, Pastor Peter Tan-Chi was impressed just like everybody else. Several days and nights after that speech I began to reconcile the financial security he discussed with the lessons I learned in my academic studies. There was not much difference except that financial security and investments taught in college emphasized the rewards here on earth while the financial security discussed by Brother Ray An Fuentes and espoused by Pastor Peter Tan-Chi were after life… the one we expect to be when our physical/flesh body is gone. While still here on earth, trust the Lord that our prayers and longing will be answered. No problem is too big to remain unsolved. Accept, Believe, Trust the Lord. He is the Savior, he will not left you out in the cold as long as you accept he is your savior. I used to trust my own effort, capabilities and if things don't turn out right, I asked the Lord to get me out of this fix. Suddenly, I realized.. it's not to be. Above all else, we must put our trust and faith in Christ. After that encounter, I began attending bible lessons in Bible Foundation 1 at the prodding of my son. One class lead to another.. Bible Foundation 2, Holy Spirit, Baptism, Discovering Christian Growth and Galatians. I used to think I am assured of my place in heaven as long as I do good works and nothing more. Not so, and it's the sure path to perdition. I continued reading my bible alone, even if I can't attend the scheduled gathering at the place of worship. My son opened the door to me so I learned what being good Christian is all about. I must admit I haven't learned all of them yet but then it's a continuous process. As long as there is to be learned, I'll keep on trying. Pastors Glenn Obligacion, Jimmy Bernardo, Insong Nolan and of course, the most senior of them all, Pastor Peter Tan-Chi. Meanwhile, my son has kept me from drifting off my course. He brought home CDs and DVDs of the lectures and lessons discussed at the House of Worship if he was there and I wasn't. Alongside with the above-named pastors, my son began attending and engaging in animated conversation with this other pastor he reconciled with last year. Their lessons and discussions were smooth at first but some differences in beliefs and theories that can't be straightened out by scriptures and theology strained their relationship. Then last year, they began to reconsider their previous discussions. Newer and fresher approach were made and soon they have a meeting of the mind. Why not explore their ideas and beliefs. After all, this pastora's ideas and beliefs does not contradict the teachings of Pastors Obligacion, Bernardo, Nolan and Peter Tan-Chi. Late last year, this pastor has a new posting and assignment in Singapore, until now. The pastor was supposed to have a sojourn here next month but on-going activities prevented the trip and moved to a later date. The pastor instead asked/requested my son if he can take a week-end trip to the Lion City this week-end. He left the early afternoon flight last Friday, he is taking the early morning flight/return trip a little past midnight tomorrow, Monday. Expected to arrive at 4 AM, he can and will report for duty at his office tomorrow at 7:30 AM. What a busy end-end. Unable to attend his regular Sunday service here, my son must have doubled his prayers while in the Lion City . I'll be meeting my son early tomorrow at the NAIA, the former Manila International Airport . By the way, this pastor is a young woman. PASTOR Maria Divina Mantaring.

SIR NESTORIO, MY BOYHOOD IDOL AND MENTOR

Tall. Ramrod straight. Adjutant's voice. Strict. Commanding presence. That's how I'll describe my Grade 4 teacher-adviser who has impregnated a lasting influence in my formative years and shape my character that last until my adult life. I don't really like him. Especially after that encounter I had with him a year earlier. One day, I figured in a fight with a bigger classmate. He was an acknowledged bully in the class. After dismissal, this bully got my hat and don it on his head. I asked him to give it back to me since it belongs to me and must go home with it on top of my head. The bully was grinning from ear to ear and said, he'll give it back to me on one condition. I must beat him in a fistfight. Our classmates were now heckling and were eager to see a bloody fight expecting that after the smoke has cleared, they'll see one of us badly beaten (probably me), crawling like a snake and asking for mama's help. But they were dead wrong. They've underestimated my resolve. With an eagle's eye, I'd been eyeing the round wooden posts, more or less 2.5-3 inches in diameter to be used in the fencing of our school garden stockpiled not far from us. They haven't thought it could be used other than its intended purpose. Our naughty classmates pushed me towards him so we could make initial contact and the bully will make a mince meat out of me. In the initial salvo, I was hit in the head, stumbled and landed on my buttocks at the seat of my pants right there where the posts were. I grabbed one, stand-up and pressed my attack. He was big, I was small. I swing my weapon and attacked his shin. Bingo.. I hit the mark right on target. I was about to whack him in the head but our classmates and older pupils prevented me from crippling my adversary by grabbing and holding my weapon. The bully dropped, crumbled like a sack of potatoes and remained on the ground holding his shin, howling like a castrated dog. Classmates who earlier were instigating the fight were preventing me now from whacking him, saving the bully from further punishment. Bigger and older pupils were able to grabbed my weapon and the girls were quick to report the incident to the head-teacher, our future teacher-adviser. We were brought to his office/class room for interrogation and the guilty to be meted with necessary punishment. The bully, the alleged victim of my uncontrollable fury and I, the alleged assailant and attacker were now standing face to face. The bully was interrogated first but does not, cannot answer the questions asked. Maybe because he was busy crying and realizing he started it all. My mind says "If he cannot answer, probably he never will.. so I'll do the talking. Not yet asked, not yet my turn I pressed my attack. I said, " Teacher, he cannot answer because he is guilty, he started this fight and now cries as if his mother just died". The bully simply looked at the floor as if looking for a lost dime and doesn't seem to care to answer. Feeling confident I'll be exonerated, I resumed my tirades. That's what happened to bullies, like Goliath slain by small boy David. Teacher Nestorio turned towards me, raised his hand and slapped me. I thought my face grew thicker and numbed. Then he said, "Until you're asked, keep silent. And he added, "Don't talk until you're talked to'. My natural instinct was to hold my face and cry. Now, both of us were crying. Actually, he was sobbing while mine was just rising to a crescendo. Then the teacher asked, "You want some more?, asking as if it wasn't enough. I can't say a word, just shaking my head left to right.. indicating "Enough', as if my jaw has just locked. A naughty boy from the Grade 6 class said, "Sir, whoever cried louder, be declared the winner". Everybody laughed and seconded the motion. Somebody added, "Gene Yu will be declared the winner because he's crying while his adversary is now just sobbing. "Right", another added. And Gene gets his hat back. Would you believe? this time I'm laughing while still crying because of their naughty remarks. I saw the teacher beaming in the corner of my eyes. The bully can't even raise his face. He's just stooping there. Then the teacher told us to shake our hands, don't repeat this unfortunate incident, gave the hat back to me and asked us if we're still angry with each other before everybody was finally dismissed.

After a few months, the school year ended. And on recognition day, I was first in the honor roll, an improvement from the previous years 3^rd. The deposed 1^st was now in fourth, the 4^th was now 3^rd, and the previous 2^nd place has managed to maintain his position. The following school year opened (we're now in grade 4), everybody is everybody's classmate again. Including the bully I whacked last year. Right on opening day, I actively participated in class recitation. Not much change happened. It's just like last year. We've managed to maintain our respective position. Everyday, before the class starts, we recited a prayer to guide us in our studies. After that, Sir Nestorio will deliver a sermon that tackles the virtues we have to learn as young pupils that must be turned into habits that will shape our character that we can pass on to our children when we're already adult. He emphasized that good manners, right conduct, virtues are best learned and practiced in youth since it will be automatically done in any situation. Observance of proper etiquette, protocol and proper decorum is demanded at all times. At that time, I just took it in stride since I'm pre-occupied with my being the top gun in academics. I have been disciplined at home by strict parents and I deemed it superfluous and overkill to be subjected to these long sermon as if we're convicts being reformed. Anyway, I just keep it to myself alone. What will I lose if I play along. Nothing. It won't cost me a penny. Before long, I didn't realize I'm already doing it on my own initiative. I was so focused in my preparations for our daily activities and I was so determined to stay on top. For me, academic competition mattered most. The rest… industrial and agricultural education where we're taught how to fix and repair woodwork, broken chairs and tables and planting vegetables were for pupils with less intellect. Gradually, I'm yearning to hear Sir Nestorio's homily every morning and I'm beginning to appreciate it. I grudgingly admitted to myself I must excel too in this subject, GMRC, Good Manners and Right Conduct if I want to maintain my ranking. My fear then, what if I beat them in academics and I'm beaten in GMRC, well I might be demoted to 2^nd, 3^rd and even last among the pupils with honor. The virtues he imparted to us then and still my basis for my relationship towards my family, neighbors, co-workers, relatives, friends and even enemies were learned from Sir Nestorio. Mere words and speeches, will not and cannot convince me if people who espoused it does not put it into practice. Sir was different. I was already in Grade 5 ( I was the 1^st placer in the class under him in Grade 4) when he did something that convince me and I can still vividly remember what is this and why he did it. His daughter, our junior is attending the Grade 4 class under her own father as teacher-adviser. She was first placer the year before from a different teacher. Now, her father will naturally make her 1^st placer in the current school year. So people thought. Before the ranking was done, a comprehensive exam in all subjects will be given to all pupils in the running for honors. His daughter was already in the running for 1^st place. The second placer was already beaten twice, in grade 2 and grade 3. In due time, the comprehensive exam will be given. The honor pupils in grade 5 and grade 6 were made the watcher in that event. Other teachers prepared and administered the exam with Sir Nestorio inhibiting. We checked their papers and when the result was out, her daughter came out on top. The second placer was soundly beaten. When recognition day comes, her daughter was awarded 2^nd place. The beaten adversary was now receiving the gold medal. At that time, I was confused. His daughter deserved to be the 1^st placer, why then give the award to her opponent.. She was beaten fair and square. When I asked him, why he reversed their placing, he simply said "Out of Delicadeza". We honestly believed, his daughter deserved the top ward, but then the father prevented it. Years later, I realized and learned what this is all about. "Sense of Propriety'. Sir Nestorio stands head and shoulder above most lawmakers and other public servants today. I then recalled and reviewed his past sermons and appreciate it even more. The virtues he espoused, advocated and passed on to us guided me in my adolescence, manhood and adult life. Among them aside from the above are honesty, sincerity, punctuality, courage, integrity, loyalty, respect to elders, golden rule or reciprocity, kindness, perseverance, tenacity, steadfastness, trustworthy, word of honor, teamwork, commitment. Many other virtue and lessons were imparted to us, but for me, they're the standout. If and when I have to time to return to my hometown, I'll pay respect to the grave of this great man. I felt blessed and honored to be under this disciplinarian. Thank you, Sir Nestorio.