Paglisan

Isang araw palang ang nilalagi niya doon pero pakiramdam niya isang taon ng nakagapos ang kanyang buong katawan sa karimlan.

Hindi ko naman masisi ang nagdala sa kanya doon dahil hanggang ngayon hindi ko naman alam kung sino ang nagsasabi ng totoo.

Kung siya mismo hindi alam kung paano pananatilihing buhay ang ulirat sa kinalalahyan niya ngayon, paano pa kaya ako. Kung alam lang niya na sa bawat segundong pumatak iniisip ko pa din kung paano ko siya matutulungan.

Nakakaawa ang itsura nya noong nagkaroon ako ng oras na dumalaw. Nanglilimahid ang kanyang mukha na animo’y isang batang sumuot sa isang kwebang punung-puno ng sapot ng gagamba.

Napabuntung-hininga na lang ako at walang nasambit na ni isang salita. Niyakap ko siya. Mabilis ang tibok ng kanyang puso, para bang may humahabol sa kanya. Naramdaman kong humihikbi siya. Hanggang sa unti-unting tumulo ang kanyang luha.

“Pagod na Pagod na ‘ko!, Hindi ko na alam kung makakaya ko pang mabuhay ng isa pang araw na kasama ang mga taong ni minsan sa buhay ko ay hindi ko pinangarap na makasiping sa pagtulog.”

Awang-awa na ako sa kanya. Gusto kong umiyak pero hindi ko magawa. Hindi ko kayang ipakita sa kanyang napanghihinaan ng loob ang kaisa-isang nagbibigay sa kanya ng kaunting pag-asa matakasan ang karimlang kinalalagyan niya.

Tumunog ang hudyat ng pamamaalam. Gusto ko mang manatili ngunit talagang limitado ang pagkakataong ibinigay sa akin. Nagpaalam ako sa kanya sabay sambit ang mga salitang, ‘Babalikan kita, at sa pagbalik ko asahan mo ang magandang balita.’ Niyakap ko siya nang mahigpit. Hinawakan ko ang kanyang kamay at hinimas ito gaya ng ginagawa ko dati.

Lumisan ako baon ang ngiting ibinigay niya sa akin. Nagbigay ito sa akin ng pag-asang sa huli ay mabibigyang linaw ang lahat ng hinuha ng marami. Maging ang mga tanong sa aking isipan. Mga tanong na hinayaan ko nalang na manatili sa aking sarili. Mga tanong na nagpatikom sa aking bibig nang makita ko ang mga paghihirap na dinaranas niya. Mga tanong na gusto kong sa bibig nya mismo manggaling ang mga kasagutan.

Alas otso na ng gabi nang ako’y makauwi. Pagbukas ko ng pinto, tumambad sa aking harapan ang kanyang litrato. Naalala ko tuloy ang ngiting pabaon niya sakin bago ko siya lisanin. Naalala ko lahat ng mga pagkakataong uuwi ako ng bahay at maaamoy ko ang masarap na halimuyak ng kanyang nilulutong pagkain para sa’kin. Naalala ko ang walang katapusang kwentuhang akala mo’y hindi kami mauubusan at wala ng bukas.

Ang sarap balikan ng nakaraan. Ang sarap alalahanin ang mga bagay na nagpapasaya sa’yo kahit gaano kahirap ang buhay. Ang sarap sariwain ng mga pangarap na kaunti nalang ay abot-kamay na.

Binalikan ko ang gabi na ni sa panaginip ay hindi ko akalaing magaganap. Tinanong ko ang aking sarili kung bakit nangyayari ang mga bagay na kinasasadlakan ko ngayon? Bakit sa mga oras na akala mo lahat ay nasa tamang lugar, biglang may lilitaw na aberya?

Alam kong may dahilan ang bawat kaganapang nangyayari sa isang tao, maganda man o panget. Ngunit minsan hindi ko na alam kung pinaglalaruan ba tayo ng tadhana. Bakit kailangang lagi mo nalang tuklasin ang kahulugan ng mga bagay?

Hindi ko namalayang nakatulog ako sa paghahanap ng mga kasagutan sa aking mga katanungang hanggang sa ngayo’y hindi ko alam kung paano mabibigyang linaw o posible pa bang mabigyang linaw.

Akala ko’y nananaginip ako, ngunit totoo palang tumutunog ang cellphone ko. “Unknown Number” ang nagregister sa screen ng cellphone ko. Sinagot ko ang cellphone. Tinanong kung ako nga ba ang nakalagay na pangalan sa kanilang record. Sumagot ako ng, ‘oo’. Pagkasabi pa lang ng aking kausap na, “Masamang Balita po”, kinutuban na ako.

Patuloy na binibigay ng kausap ko ang detalye at ang mga dapat kung gawin, ngunit sa mga pagkakataong iyon, para bang biglang tumigil ang mundo ko. Para bang nawalan ako ng pakiramdam. Para bang panandaliang tumigil tumanggap ng kahit ano pa mang impormasyon ng utak ko.

Ilang minuto ang lumipas at napansin kong may dugong tumutulo sa aking mga kamay. Nakita ko nalang na basag ang picture frame kung saan nakalagay ang kanyang litrato. Hindi ko naramdaman ang sakit ng mga bubog. Siguro nga’y naging manhid na ang aking katawan sa sakit na ibinigay ng kanyang paglisan.

Tumungo ako sa may bintana. Naramdaman ko ang kakaibang simoy na animoy niyayakap ako. Sa mga pagkakataong iyon alam kong kailanman hindi ako mag-iisa.

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Coffeeshop

It was just barely two months from the first time they’ve met, talked and shared moments together.

The chance meeting was just timely for him. He just came from a break up. Robert, a musician usually hangs out in a coffeeshop to grab his coffee, sit for awhile with his ipod on, while doing some sketches in his sketch pad, if not trying to scribble down notes which eventually becomes part of his compositions.

In the most unexpected time and circumstance, the coffeeshop Robert used to frequent did not open in its usual time of 6AM. But since, he is a patron of the said coffesshop, he waited for a couple of minutes. A few minutes elapsed and he heard someone humming. While sitting on the gutter with his heads on his knees clamped together, a woman stood in front of him. The woman asked her if he has a lighter.

Robert instantly looked at his pocket and handed over the lighter to the woman.
The woman started talking. She told that she’s a patron of the same coffeeshop and that she wouldn’t try any other coffee other than the one being served there. She told Robert that the coffee shop will open an hour late as was posted the other day. She asked Robert if it’s okay that she sit beside him while waiting for the coffeeshop to open.

And so the woman continued talking. “You look like a musician.”, she said.
“Why did you say that?”, Robert replied.

Woman: “Hmm. You have long hair, you have a tattoo, and you have a sketchpad and a pen and, is that a notebook?.(the woman trying to get a hold of the notebook).”

Robert: Hmm, you’re pretty observant huh?!. So what do you do for a living?

Woman: Hmm.. Im a freelance photographer.

Robert: Well that’s cool. So where’s your camera?

Woman: It’s not with me right now. I left it in my place.

While the two continued talking, they didn’t notice that the coffeeshop is already open. It was only when he heard the stomach of the woman did some sound which signifies she’s starving that they’ve realized that they’ve been talking for quite a long time.

So they decided to go inside the coffeeshop and had breakfast. They continued talking and talking like they’re the only persons in the room, as if they’ve known each other for so long.

This scene at the coffeeshop became a daily thing for the two. No doubt they really enjoyed each other’s company.

Until one day, two months from the first time they have met, the woman didn’t show up in the coffeeshop. Robert waited for a few hours but still no sign of the woman was seen.

Robert continued to wait for the girl everytime he drops by at the coffeeshop. But still no sign nor shadow of the woman was seen.
Until one day, in the very same spot they usually sit and talk, he saw a note. The note says:

“I’m sorry but, I know you’re falling for me, I can see it in your eyes. And I don’t want that to happen. I don’t want you to fall for me.. That’s why I decided not to show up anymore.. We’ll see each other again, I know, in time..”

Robert was heartbroken. His strong yet faint heart never expected how swift their moments together would end.

Robert walked down the road. It was almost dusk. He walked, and walked, wondering why she would just left like that without even talking..

When Robert reached the river bank, he stopped. He sat on a bench nearby and started strumming his guitar, not knowing that the woman was on the other side of the river humming the very song Robert heard the first time they’ve met..






*A 20-minute impromptu short story hehe.. So please bear with the typos/grammatical errors :)

Trip to Nostalgia

“This is my life, It’s not what it was before
All these feelings I’ve shared

And these are my dreams

That I’d never lived before”

I didn’t hear the bus conductor shouted “LRT Buendia” because the lyrics of the song “So Faraway” by Staind plays all over my head. Heard it while I was buying a ticket in the terminal and it never left my mind. I shouted to the bus driver to stop the bus. I hurriedly ran towards the exit of the bus and jumped towards the gutter of the road.

I walked a few meters and stumbled upon a cigarette vendor. I thought I needed to smoke so I bought two sticks of Marlboro lights. I thought for awhile if I’d take the LRT or an FX taxi. I recalled that it was Friday and so as expected a lot of people would go to the Quiapo Church and there’d be a heavy traffic as well. I decided to take the LRT. Good thing there’s only a few commuters waiting for the LRT and by the time I got inside there’s still a seat for me. I never intended to go to the Quiapo Church that day but since I’m not in a rush I decided to offer a little prayer.

I arived at the Quiapo Church at around 3PM. I made the sign of the cross, kneeled and prayed. I can’t seem to concentrate with my prayers for a few seconds or two as I observe the people around me. While praying I noticed an old woman praying with her rosary who appears to be sobbing. I saw lovers kneeling together with some moments glancing with each other giving each other a good smile. Then I heard the choir singing in a melodic and relaxing tone a song they probably would be singing in a wedding. I’ve not attended a wedding before so I’m not familiar with songs being played or sung in such a ceremony. But the song was familiar. I heard that the lyrics were:

“If I can reach the stars, pull one down for you

Shine it on my heart, so you could see the truth

That this love I have inside is everything it seems..”

I figured it’s “Change the World” of Eric Clapton. I thought it might be the favorite love song of the groom and the bride. Nice and perfect for a wedding I said to myself. I wondered how much the groom really loved the woman he’s going to marry. For a moment I imagined myself on the altar with my bride and the choir singing the same song. It would absolutely be a bliss.

I found myself kneeling with my hands locked up with each other and mesmerized by the voices of the choir members. For a few minutes I was just listening to them, forgetful of the prayers I am silently offering. The spellbinding moment was interrupted when a kid noticed that my handkerchief was on the floor. He gave it to me and I gave thanks. I then went on to finish my prayers and left the church.

I headed to the University. It was almost 5PM so as expected most of the faculty and students are heading home. I went to the security office and asked if Professor Kho is still in the campus. Good thing he is still there. I told the security officer my name and left my ID.

I started to feel nostalgic as I started to walk around the campus. There are some structural changes. There are more buildings than before, which could be the reason why the trees which give shade and a calm temperature within the campus are gone.

The canteen was still there but under a new catering service and with some stalls of known food establishments. The library was still there it seemed like the old books have been replaced by new editions. I’ve noticed that there’s a new librarian, who seems to be stricter than the one during my time. The gym was bigger and the basketball courts became wider and the audience seats were expanded. The garden where I always sit on the benches around waiting for the sunset was still there. I continued walking and saw the bench were I always sit and rest. I saw the note I wrote there a few days before graduation which says “The Engineer’s throne” with a sign of my initials and the date I wrote it. I smiled when I saw it. Oh the feeling of nostalgia was overflowing.

I heard a group of students laughing hard and seated on one of the benches. One of them has a guitar and started playing.

“Minsan sa may Kalayaan tayo’y nagkatagpuan

May mga sariling gimik at kanya-kanyang hangad sa buhay

Sa ilalim ng iisang bubong mga sikretong ibinubulong

Kahit na anong mangyari Kahit na saan ka man patungo..”

After hearing the song, I thought I was really getting old. That song from the Eraserheads was just starting to climb the charts when I first heard it way back in the 90’s and heard it again when I went at their FINAL SET CONCERT a few months ago. I never expected that these teenagers would appreciate the song and the message it imparts. And so I thought, the Eraserheads truly is one legendary OPM artist which continuously inspires people with their songs even if they’re already disbanded.

I arrived at the Engineering building where Professor Kho was teaching. While walking at the corridor I saw Mang Manny. I can’t believe that he’s still there polishing the floors and keeping clean the rooms. I smiled at him and he smiled back. I talked to him for awhile, asked him what have happened in the school for the past years. He invited me to sit down for awhile and told me what happened in the campus. He told me that there’s a slight change in the administration of the school and there was some reorganization that took place. A lot of faculty staff, dean and other employees were replaced. He said that he was lucky he was retained. He decided to cutoff the chat as he was a little bit worried someone might see him not working. I told him that I was glad to see him and that I’ll try to come back again.

I headed to Professor Kho’s classroom. It’s 10 minutes before 6PM, the time where Professor Kho usually dismisses his class during our time. I waited at the door for him. After 10 minutes the class was dismissed. When all the students left the room I called Professor Kho as he erases his writings on the board.

He didn’t recognize me at first when I called him. He approached me while starting to wear his glasses and said, “Oh, it’s you! My favorite student!” He asked if I was outside for a long time waiting for him. I answered him back and said I was there a few minutes before 6PM. He then said sorry he has to dismiss the class on the dot.

He then looked at me and said I was more handsome and goodlooking than my college days. I smiled at him and joked that one become more handsome and good looking when he passes the Engineering board exams and gets a license. We laughed hard.

He told me he’s just going back to the faculty room and leave his things. He then invited me for dinner. I said okay and told him I have an hour or two for that.

We went to a nearby bar and restaurant. Flashbacks from the past entered my mind as we approached the bar. The path we are into is towards the place where I usually hangout after the major exams. Professor Kho never changed, he continues to cope up with his students. He knows what the young enjoys and so he embraces it and tries to live with it. That’s why although his subject is very difficult his students love him.

When we arrived at the main entrance the band is already playing. I heard a note of the song and started to think of the title.

“And all the roads we have to walk are winding

And all the lights that lead us there are blinding

There are many things that I’d like to say to you but I don’t know how

because maybe you’re gonna be the one that saves me..”

I sang the song silently on my head and I figured it was “Wonderwall” from Oasis. I smiled. I remembered that day when I met an amazing girl at the very same bar. It was during those times when I needed someone to talk to. During that night I met her she was alone and I noticed she needs some company. I offered her a drink and the conversation started. All throughout the night I was asking her real name but she is just one hard headed woman. She told me to call her Kat. She always changes the topic when I ask her what her real name is. We slept together in a motel and the following morning, I found a note which says, “My real name’s Victoria”. Too bad she didn’t left a number. I’ve always drop by the bar thinking that I could still see her, but I never saw her again.

At that moment I know Prof. Kho is talking but I wasn’t anymore aware what he is saying. Until he signaled that the waiter is right in front of us to take our orders.

We ordered food and drinks. As usual I ordered steak and Prof. Kho ordered chicken. We drank some bottles of beer and shared some talk. Prof. Kho being my mentor taught me a lot of things way back in college. From the first day of school when I came late and just gave me a wink after telling me that ‘early to bed early to rise makes a man healthy wealthy and wise’, he became my inspiration. He inspired me to work hard for whatever endeavour I am into. He taught me that no matter how smart, humble and nice I am to other people, there’d come a time that I’d realized that being good isn’t enough for some people, sometimes they will use you for their own advantage.

Prof. Kho never failed to move me with his words. He told me what really happened in the campus. He told me that the campus was bought by some rich man from the old management at the time it was incurring huge losses. He is as lucky as everyone to have been retained. He told me that he can’t take the policies of the new management, but he doesn’t have a choice. He’s too old and in a few years time he’ll be retiring. He just so love the school so much that he decided to retire there.

Prof. Kho told me that, in this life sometimes when you love so much something, you just can’t leave it behind. You’ll sacrifice everything even your own principles just to preserve your possession of it. That’s the power of love. As cliché as it may sound he said that ‘Love really conquers all.’

Prof. Kho continued talking as if a priest giving a homily or a father talking to his son. He said while looking at me, “You know, you’re still young and you might not understand me but I have experienced a lot in this world that no other person would have ever imagined I have experienced. You’re lucky my son, that you have finished your education and even got a degree. No professor would be happier than seeing his student successful. It’s a reward for us professors. This school has been witness to every student’s struggles and achievements and I want to end my teaching career here. This is how I much love this institution.

It was 8PM when we finished dinner. I told him that I am more than happy to see him. I told him that I’d be glad to visit him again in the campus or at his home. He hugged me and said he’s proud of me. I thanked him and felt more proud of him for the great love he gave to his students, to teaching and to the institution.\

It was 830PM when the jeepney I was riding started to traverse the road to Cambridge Street. Memories of that road came back. I remembered the nights when I go home late and the dorm was already closed and so I had to climb up the balcony. Heard the song with these lyrics playing on the jeepney’s radio..

“Pana-panahon ng pagkakataon maibabalik ba ang kahapon..

Natatandaan mo pa ba

Nang tayong dalawa ay unang nagkita?

Panahon ng kamusmusan..”

I sighed and smiled. I tried to hide the smile when someone gave me a raised eyebrow, who might be thinking I am crazy. “Kanlungan” by Noel Cabangon reminds me of my childhood at the province. It also reminded me of the shelter that the dorm gave me for 5 years. It truly served as my sanctuary for all the years I am struggling to be an engineer.

As the jeepney comes to a close to the dorm I noticed that the streets are now filled with tall light posts. But the canals seemed to be a little full of garbage than before. And I wondered where the vendors have gone after they’ve been ordered to stay out of the sidewalk.

After seeing the Mini-stop convenience store I know I’m almost there. I jumped off the jeepney to stop by Mini-stop and bought some cigars. I walked my way to my old dorm and when I arrived, I saw a young woman in the receiving area. I told him my name and that I was a dormer there once. I asked her where is Mrs. Lopez. She asked me if I haven’t heard the news. I asked her what news is she talking about. She told me that Mrs. Lopez had a heart attack and her remains lie in a chapel a few blocks from there. I was shocked. All the while I thought Mrs. Lopez was healthy and did not have any ailment.

I asked the woman if she could give me a glass of water. When she came back I asked if I could go upstairs and see my old room. She handed me the keys and I was lucky enough that no one was occupying the room. I opened the door. I felt the memories coming back from the first time my feet landed there. I remembered Kiko. The friend I am not sure I had. Up to now I never was sure if I was hallucinating that time or it was just a dream. I went to the balcony. I remembered the moments when Kiko was playing the guitar and singing..

I then wondered where’s Francis now. I remembered those times when Francis was just learning to play the guitar. Francis was a frustrated rocker, I hardly see him read or study his lessons. He just played all day long. I was happy that he became a member of the band and played in some frat parties including my frat. Well, when his band disbanded and her parents was fed off of him he left the dorm. The last news I heard was Francis had a family now in the south and doing some extras in some local bars.

I went down and started to go to the chapel to pay respect to Mrs. Lopez. While walking I saw a group of men jamming on a bench with a table filled with bottles of beers. I heard they are singing a

song which is just right and fit to the occasion

“Magbukas ka pa ng tuna

At Kukulangin ang isa

Maglabas ka pa ng baso

At tatagayan ko kayo..”

Of course everyone knows the song, it’s “Inuman na” from Parokya ni Edgar. Oh I remember and miss those days when I cut classes and just hang out in one of my buddies’ place, drink beer and jam to our favorite songs.

Finally, I arrived at the memorial chapel. I saw some familiar faces, which seemed to be schoolmates before. There are some students who are current dormers. Some faculty of the campus, relatives and friends of Mrs. Lopez. One of the children of Mrs. Lopez saw me. She told me she remembered me and asked me what’s my name again. I told him my name and she told me hers. Her name’s Francine. She told me she appreciates that I took time to pay respect for her mother. She offered me some drinks and a sandwich. I said thanks and told her I just had dinner.

I approached the coffin. There are three pictures displayed, two girls and a boy. The pictures had a ribbon on top with a note "Memories of Good and Loving Children". I looked at the picture of the guy. The guy has long hair, with a slim body and what’s noticeable is he has a guitar on his back. He looks familiar, I said to myself.

I told Francine that I never thought that they had a brother since I never saw him during my stay at the dorm. She sighed and told me in her soft voice and sad tone that he’s dead already. She told me that their mother kept the pain for so long and continued living as if her brother was still alive and just in the province. She told me that Mrs. Lopez decided not to tell everyone in the dorm about their brother’s death even the fact that she has a son. She told me that since their brother is the only guy and the youngest, Mrs. Lopez really put so much attention on him. So much love that whatever her brother requests Mrs. Lopez instantly gives without hesitation. Much attention has even been given when their father died, she said.

I was dumb for a moment. I felt something I’d only felt once in my life. And it was five years ago. I tried to compose myself and tried not to stutter when I asked her the name of their brother. She answered me back and said, it's Kiko.

I know Francine is still talking and saying a lot of things about Kiko, but all her words don't register anymore in my brain. I found myself walking towards the exit of the chapel and left. I woke up the following morning, sweating and thinking what had just happened the other night. I was about to go to the shower, when my phone rang. It was Debbie, my fiancee.

______________________________________________________________________

*This story is intended as a sequel to "Music and Lyrics". If you haven't read it click HERE.

MUSIC and LYRICS

It was half-past noon when I arrived at the dorm. An old woman by the name of Mrs. Lopez, or “Mrs. Lupet” as what other dormers would call her welcomed me in the receiving area. By her looks I can sense already how strict she is. We went upstairs where the rooms are located. She showed me my room and went on telling me the house rules. Doors and gates of the building closed at 11.30PM. Lights out at 12 midnight. No drugs. No smoking. No drinking. No girls. No fighting with other dorm mates. She said whatever grudge we have with other dorm mates we should settle it outside. She asked me if I understood perfectly the house rules and if I have any other questions. I just gave her a nod.

I decided to lie on my bed for awhile and take a rest. Even if the travel time took a little less than the last time I went here in Manila, I felt tired. Yes, I came from a small town in a province in the South trying my good luck here in Manila. You know when your parents found that you have good grades and your professors would recommend that you get a degree in some field, your parents would instantly yield to the advice. And so you’ll be forced to take the entrance exam at some top university in the Metro. I wondered what have happened to the education system nowadays. Seemed to me that the massive commercialism have penetrated even the top universities. Well, you won’t get hired by one of the Multinationals if you’re not a graduate of any of the top 3 Universities. Yes you can apply but you wont even get a chance to take their exam or an interview. Alright so after getting the letter from the University you’ve applied for informing that you are accepted, your parents would be more than excited to see their son get his college degree. So that’s why I’m here. Trying to give them a piece of paper after four years or so and brag about it in the neighborhood.

Minutes passed by and my eyes began to give up. But even before I could really fall into slumber, I heard a knock at my door. “Oh, c’mon, the witch is here again”, I said to myself.

I opened the door, and it was not Mrs.Lopez. A guy by the name of Kiko stood in front of me. I thought he was from the other room and want to make friends. I told to go back in awhile if he wants to chat or get along and that I need to rest.

“Oh, didn’t Mrs. Lopez told you?, Kiko said.”

“Told me what?”, I answered.

Kiko told me that he was my room mate. I felt a little dumb for a minute or two. Why didn’t I think about that I have a room mate, when there are two beds in the room.

I said sorry to him and started a conversation. I noticed that he has an acoustic guitar with him. I asked another dumb question whether he plays. He answered me back with a simple yes. I continued with the conversation, but it felt a little awkward. So I decided to stop and told him that I need to sleep.

I woke up sweating. It was around 6PM says my watch. Kiko was not in his bed. Wondered where he is, but suddenly I heard someone singing and playing the guitar. Thought the sound is coming from the balcony. Yes, there was a small balcony in each room in the dorm. I thought Mrs. Lopez could not stop guys our age from smoking, and so in order for her patron students to come back and renew their contracts with her she placed a little balcony in each room. It has become sort of a silent attraction for the student-smokers like me.

I went to the balcony and there I saw Kiko. Heard him singing a song with these lyrics:

‘Cos if one day you wake up and find that you're missing me,
And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I can be,
Thinking maybe you'll come back here to the place that we'd meet,

And you'd see me waiting for you on the corner of the street.

I kept on thinking about the title, and there it popped out of my head, “The Man who can’t be moved” by The Script. How would I forget that!? It’s the song playing on the bus when I was on the road traveling to Manila. I thought he’s really good. It seemed like he’s just talking to someone, just that there’s some melody to it. He didn’t notice I was there. Well, he’s facing towards the direction of the big buildings and establishments in the area. When he finished playing, I clapped my hands and said he truly rocks.

He stood up and said I maybe hallucinating or that I am on heroine. He said I’m in no position to tell whether he is good or not. He walked through the room and into his bed. I thought, I’ve created another awkward scene.

I followed him. I asked him if he had dinner already. He answered me back with his simple yes. I asked him again if he has plans for the night and invited him to grab some beer after I had dinner. But he declined. He said he needs to sleep early for his class tomorrow. And so I went alone.

The following morning, I rushed to the bathroom to take a quick shower. Damn, I never thought living away from the house would be that hard. Yes, I won’t be hearing my mom yelling at me to fix my closet, but no one’s there to yell at me to wake up for my class. No one’s there to cook for me one decent meal.

As expected I went to class late. Luckily I wasn’t even called in the recitations and the professor was cool enough to forgive me for being late. He seemed to have deviated from the usual power-tripping and terrorizing professors out there.

I went home at around 6PM. Knocked at the door, but no one’s opening it. So I had to get my keys. All the while I thought Kiko’s still out. But I heard the sound of the guitar again coming from the balcony.

For the second time I sneaked in. I heard he’s singing a song with these lyrics:

Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

I thought I’ve heard the song before. Kept thinking and thinking, until I figured it’s “How to save a life” by The Fray. I’ve heard it on the nearby restaurant where I had dinner, during my first night at the dorm.

His voice is so soothing. I felt like I’m listening to a new record. I decided not to interrupt him and continued to listen. I felt that the emotions are really flowing. I felt that the song was instrumental to what he is actually feeling right now.

After finishing the song, I hurriedly went to my room. I made it sure not to give him any clue that I am sneaking in. I thought he’d go to bed right away but he didn’t. I thought he’d play again but minutes gone by, all I heard was silence. I never knew what happened next. I fell asleep.

My life away from home became routinary. But I never expected that it would be this fun. I mean I get to meet new friends in school, get to enjoy some of my classes with cool professors and sometimes make out with women. Well, of course outside the dorm. But one thing that thrills me more is when I get to listen to Kiko. The way he plays his guitar and the way he sings his heart out is so moving. There’s a certain high that I feel when I get to listen to him. A certain high which marijuana or heroine could not even give to me. It felt like I’m playing the game of “Name that tune” or “Don’t forget the Lyrics” everytime I sneaked in at him.

I don’t know what is it with Kiko. I can’t explain how I could connect with his songs when I hardly get to start a conversation with him. I am not even sure if he’d open up for me when we get to start one.

I’ve been hearing a lot of gossips in school about Kiko. I’ve heard that one time in his Laboratory class, he didn’t have any partner to work with so he did an experiment by himself. It appears that he had really established a certain distance between himself and other people. I wondered how Kiko could live in total isolation. It’s like he has considered it as his way of life. I couldn’t think of anything that might give whatever enjoyment Kiko feels when he’s alone. Well, I do get to enjoy solitude once in awhile but I don’t think I can stand it more than twenty minutes.

One night, I tried to sneak in again at him. I heard he’s playing a song that seemed to be new to my ears. I listened intently to figure out the song. I heard that the lyrics were:

I was inviting, her into my heart
But she was out riding in some other man's car
She was my night time, thought I was her star
Guess I was wrong, but see I’m strong
Won’t take me long for me to move on

I tried to think where I heard the song, and it occured to me that the song was played in the frat party I attended. It’s “Go On Girl” by Neyo. I figured that his version was far different from the original that’s why I had a hard time thinking what the song is. His was an acoustic version. Turning an RnB into an acoustic soulful version was brilliant. That night I became a fan.

From that time on I religiously sneaked in at him. He continued to impress me with his renditions. Everytime I listen to him, I am relieved with whatever stress school is giving me.

It was the exams week. As I look my class standing, I need to get an A to pass Physics and a B+ to pass Calculus. Damn, I thought how am I supposed to get them when I can’t even stay up late to study.

I tried to drink a bottle of energy drink to stay awake for my exams the following morning. As I am about to start studying, I heard the strum of Kiko’s guitar. He’s playing again. I tried to ignore it but it’s just so inviting. I sneaked in him again. I thought a few minutes couldn’t hurt my Calculus and Physics.

The song’s a little bit weird right now. I’m not sure if I heard it on the radio or watched it on MTV. There’s some reggae feel to it but sounded more like alternative to me. I heard that the lyrics were:

So don't treat me like a puppet on a string
'Cause I know I have to do my thing.
Don't talk to me as if you think I'm dumb;
I wanna know when you're gonna come - soon.

What The Fuck! How could I not know the song. I just heard it the other night when I was hanging out with a girl I met in the bar. It’s from the legendary Bob Marley! It’s “Waiting in Vain.” Without noticing that time is passing by and ignoring the fact that I have to study for my exams the following morning, I stood right there and enjoyed the song.

I took the exams in Calculus at 8 in the morning and Physics at 3 in the afternoon. Good thing there was a break in between I got to review for Physics. The day was so stressful I thought I just want to go home and hit the sack.

But who could resist Kiko’s songs? Songs which are heroine for me. I sneaked in again at the balcony and started to listen. The strums of the guitar seemed a little bit slower. There’s a tone of sadness in his voice as he sings the lyrics of the song.

There is freedom within, there is freedom without
Try to catch the deluge in a paper cup
Theres a battle ahead, many battles are lost
But youll never see the end of the road
While you’re travelling with me

I didn’t have a hard time figuring out this song. From the first note, I know it is “Don’t Dream it’s Over” by Crowded House. A song which truly means a lot to me. It brings back a lot of memories. Memories which shattered me into pieces.

At that moment, my heart melted. My eyes went gloomy, and I felt that tears start to cloud my eyes. Kiko momentarily paused. I know he felt I was just right at his back. But he continued. He went on to finish the song and paused for a few seconds. He moved his head towards my direction. He then stood up and approached me. He tapped me on my shoulder and started to start to talk.

He started to open up. He started to be as bold as everyone else, not taking great care not to touch on certain things. He told me his story and I told him mine.

I learned a lot from him. Things which no one would ever think a guy his age would have been exposed to. Experiences which no one would ever imagine a guy as aloof as him would have encountered.

I didn’t notice that we are talking for hours. I can’t believe I engaged in such conversation. The melo-drama is so much a no-no for the type of guy in me. But Kiko and his songs let me burst out the emotions I’ve been keeping for quite a long time.

By the time we went out to our beds I can see the first ray of the sun beaming at us. I thanked him for his time. I thanked him for his songs. I thanked him for trusting me with his stories. He did the same. He told me how glad he is to have shared the night together as good friends.

The following morning, I was awaken by the knock of Mrs. Lopez on my door. I looked at Kiko’s bed but he wasn’t there anymore. His bed was fixed already. His closet was empty. I wondered where’d he go.

While scratching the corner of my left eye, I opened the door. Mrs. Lopez greeted me a good morning. I noticed that she was accompanied by a guy. Mrs. Lopez started to introduce me to the guy. His name was Francis.

I asked Mrs. Lopez where did Kiko go. Mrs. Lopez went on confused. She asked me who the hell I am talking about. I told her that Kiko was my roommate and that I was just with him last night. Mrs. Lopez told me that I might be dreaming or something. She even sounded suspicious that I might be taking pot in the dorm. She told me that all throughout the semester I don’t have a room mate. I was speechless. I didn’t even know what Mrs. Lopez is saying after telling me that. Her words seemed to have mixed up and do not make sense. I can hear her voice reverberate in the four corners of the room like it was coming from the ground. I almost fainted.

I sat down in my bed while Mrs. Lopez tours the guy and tells all the crappy house rules. I catch some air and drank water. I found myself laying flat on my bed. I looked at my watch and found out it’s already noon. God, I’ve fallen asleep again. Mrs. Lopez wasn’t in the room anymore. I thought I might have been asleep when she left and didn’t want to wake me.

I looked at the other bed in the room and it’s still fixed. Same as it was that morning. I stood up and went to the closet beside mine. I was about to open the closet but I heard a sound coming from the balcony. It was a strum of a guitar, I thought. I walked my way to the balcony to find out who’s making the sound. It was Francis.

_______________________________________________________________________________

* TIRED OF CAMPAIGNING.. So Back to blogging muna.. :)

[S]EVEN

SCENE 1: DEDZ na si LOLO
LOCATION: Sa Sementeryo

Apo 1: Hay naku, Good Luck naman sa matandang to kung may maka-miss sa kanya?
Apo 2: Ang tagal naman matapos nito gutom na ko!
Apo 3: Naku, ano kaya pinamana sa'kin ni Lolo?
Apo 4: Hay naku, mabuti na nga sa matandang yan, nang matahimik na tong bahay na to at wala ng pabigat sa'tin.
Apo 5: Siguro tama na nga na nabawian na sya ng buhay, isa lang naman ang paborito nya sa mga apo niya eh.
Apo 6: Wow, sino kaya yung sexy na yun!?
Apo 7: Hay naku dapat natutulog pa ko!


Sepulturero[Extra]: Ok na po ba? Pwede ko na bang ibaon ang Lolo niyo?

Lahat ng APO: Oo bilisan mo! Scene 2 na!

SCENE 2: EYE-BALL
LOCATION: HELL

Lolo: Aba, eh nasan ba ko?! Baket parang sobrang init dito? Hanggang dito ba naman ramdam ang Global Warming.
SANTI: Wahahahaha!! Lolo!! Mabuti naman at nakarating ka ng safe and sound!
Lolo: (Sino naman tong hinayupak na tong naka-costume pa!?) Ah eh! hu u?
SANTI: Wahahahaha!! Pasensya na Lolo!, we haven't formally introduced, Call me Santi!
Lolo: (Aba pilingero tong mamang to! Feeling nya siya yung bata sa 'May Bukas Pa!') Ok Mama! Nice to meet you! Ano bang lugar to? Wag mong sabihing nasa.. .. ..
SANTI: Tama ka Lolo!! Say it! Say it!
Lolo: OH!! NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SANTI: OH!! YES!!!!!!!!!, Welcome to HELL Lolo!!

SCENE 3: ORIENTATION

SANTI: Ngayon lolo, ikaw ay sasailalim sa isang orientation. Importanteng malaman mo kung bakit ka nandito ngayon at ang mga obligasyon mo sa AKIN!
Lolo: (Power Trip tong hinayupak na to ah!) Anong Obligasyon ko Sayo!? May utang ba ko sayo?
SANTI: Utang na Loob, Lolo! Yan ang dapat mong bayaran Lolo! At madaragdagan pa yan sa mga darating na panahon.
Lolo: At bakit naman ako nagkaroon ng Utang na Loob sayo aber?!
SANTI: Syempre Lolo! Ako lang ang tumanggap saiyo!! Alam mo bang ayaw ng mga taga dun sa Taas na makarating doon kahit hibla ng buhok mo?! You should be Thankful to me Lolo!
Lolo: Orayt! Sige go straight to the point anung kailangang kong gawin para matahimik kang hinayupak ka?
SANTI: Wahahaha!!! Cool lang lolo!!
Lolo: Leche! Pano ako magiging cool eh ang init init dito, tignan mo nga nagkalat yang nagliliyab na apoy dito!
SANTI: Lolo! Ikaw naman, That's the IRONY of Hell Lolo! Kahit na mainit dito, Cool pa din ang mga tao!
Lolo: (Hay masasapak ko na to!)

SCENE 4: THE BARGAIN

SANTI: Orayt Lolo!, base sa aking records ay hindi pa naman ikaw ang pinaka-masamang tao sa Mundo. At dahil dyan MANANATILI ka pa din dito! Wahahahahahaha!!
Lolo: Anak ng Tipaklong! Ayoko dito! Ang init nga at ang papanget niyo! Hindi ako nagpayaman sa mundo para lang mapunta dito.
SANTI: Wahahaha!!! Wala ka ng magagawa Lolo Hawak ko na ang kaluluwa mo! Wahahaha!
Lolo: Wala na bang ibang paraan SANTI! Babayaran kita kahit magkano!?
SANTI: Wahahaha!!! Wala akong pakialam sa salapi mo Lolo!, Gusto ko lang ang Kaluluwa mo haha!!
Lolo: OMG! I'm Doomed!!
SANTI: Orayt Lolo! Pagbibigyan kita! Gusto mo bang bumalik sa Lupa??
Lolo: Oo naman! Anong gagawin ko? Kahit ano? Makabalik lang ako sa Lupa!
SANTI: Sure ka na ba dyan Lolo?
Lolo: Oo SURE NA! SURE NA SURE!!
SANTI: Madali lang Lolo!! Alam mo ba ang 'SEVEN DEADLY SINS'?
Lolo: Oo! Whatabout?
SANTI: Kailangang sa loob ng 24 Oras makahanap ka ng isang tao na makakagawa ng lahat ng 'SEVEN DEADLY SINS'
Lolo: Huh! Ang hirap naman! Bakit 24 Oras lang!?
SANTI: Lolo, dahil katulad ng Balita, hindi natutulog ang demonyo!! wahahahaha!!
Lolo: Okay sige! Call!!

SCENE 5: PRIDE

Nagsimula sa kanyang misyon si Lolo. Nilakad niya ang kahabaan ng kalye para maghanap ng mapapagawa ng isa sa mga deadly sins. Makalipas ang 5 oras nakita niya si Apo 1.

Lolo: Apo 1! Apo 1! Halika dito!
Apo 1: Sino po sila?
Lolo: Hindi mo ba ako nakikilala?
Apo 1: Hindi po eh. Sino po ba kayo?
Lolo: Ako ang Lolo mo.
Apo 1: Huh!? Patay na po ang Lolo ko! Nakakalungkot nga eh, kasi isang taon kaming hindi naguusap bago siya binawian ng buhay. Ewan ko, walang maglakas-loob saming dalawa na magsimula. Walang gustong kalimutan panandalian kung ano mang sakit yung binigay namin sa isa't-isa. Paano po, pasensya na napakwento pa ako sainyo, iwan ko na muna kayo.

Napa-buntung-hininga si Lolo sa narinig. Pinilit niyang tawagin si Apo 1 ngunit bahagyang nakalayo na ito.

SCENE 6: GLUTTONY

Sa muling paglalakad ni Lolo napadpad siya sa isang karinderya. Lumabas ang isang binata, si Apo 2.

Lolo: Apo 2! Apo 2!
Apo 2: Ako ho ba tinatawag niyo?
Lolo: Oo Apo! hindi mo ba nakikilala ang Lolo mo?
Apo 2: Ho? Patay na po ang Lolo ko. Medyo depressed nga po ako eh. Di ako makakain ng ayos. Nakokonsensya nga po ako kasi, noong mga panahong may sakit siya, yung mga pagkaing dala ng mga kamag-anak namin tinatago ko at ako lang ang kumakain. Pero pinagsisihan ko na yun, kaya nga on diet na ko ngayon eh. Ay, lolo pasensya na po, napakwento nako, una na po ako sainyo.
Lolo: Apo 2 saglit lang!!

Napabuntung-hininga si Lolo for the 2nd time. Pilit nyang tinawag si Apo 2 ngunit nakalayo na ito.

SCENE 7: GREED

Tumingin si Lolo sa kanyang relo, napansin niyang lumipas na pala ang apat na oras ngunit wala pa din siyang nakikitang gagawa ng kahit isa man sa mga deadly sins ni SANTI.

Napadpad siya sa isang casino. Sa may lobby nakita niya si Apo 3.

Lolo: Apo 3! Apo 3!
Apo 3: Ako ho ba ang tinatawag niyo?
Lolo: Oo Apo 3!
Apo 3: Teka po, nagkakamali po yata kayo. Hindi nyo po ako apo. Patay na po ang Lolo ko. Sa totoo nga po, namimiss ko siya eh. Madalas kasi kami dito sa casino dati. Naalala ko nga, kinukupitan ko siya ng pera para lang makapag-sugal ako. Minsan yung ipinapapaabot niyang baon sa kapatid ko pinangsusugal ko na din. Siguro lahat na ata ng sugal kahit yung wrestling ng gagamba tinatayaan ko eh. Pasensya na lolo, kailangangan ko ng pumasok sa loob, baka pagalitan ako ng boss ko.
Lolo: Teka lang Apo 3!, nagtatrabaho ka dito?
Apo 3: Oho! Natanggap akong manager kahapon lang!

Napabuntung-hininga si Lolo for the 3rd time. Napangiti nang malamang ang dati niyang apong halos sugal ang inatupag sa buhay ay unti-unting nagbabago.

SCENE 8: ANGER

Lumipas ang 2 oras at wala pa ding nakikita si Lolo na gagawa ng isa sa mga deadly sins. Hanggang sa nakakita siya ng dalawang lalaking nagsisigawan at animo'y magsusuntukan.

Lolo: (Pagkakataon ko na ito!!)

Nilapitan ni Lolo ang dalawang lalaki. Ngunit bago pa man siya makalapit ay lumitaw bigla si Apo 4 para awatin ang dalawang lalaki.

Lolo: Apo 4!?
Apo 4: Ako ho ba tinatawag niyo?
Lolo: Oo Apo 4, ako to ang lolo mo? Hindi mo ba ako naalala?
Apo 4: Mukhang nagkakamali ho kayo Lolo! Patay na po ang lolo ko. Kaka-miss nga siya eh, kahit na madalas nagtatanim ako ng galit sa kanya pag hinahampas niya ako ng sinturon niya. Ang sakit naman kasi eh. Pero ngayon ko lang nalaman kung bakit niya ginagawa yun, sayang wala na siya. Haay, Lolo una nako sainyo at kailangan ko pang pag-batiin yung dalawang lalaking nakita niyo kanina..

Napabuntung-hininga na naman ang matanda, for the 4th time. Magkahalong tuwa at lungkot ang naramdaman ng matanda. Hindi niya akalaing nagtanim pala ng galit si Apo 4 sa kanya nung nabubuhay pa siya. Naisip niyang kung mabibigyan lang siya muli ng pagkakataon ay masasabi niya ang kanyang mga nadarama.

SCENE 9: ENVY

Muling tumingin sa kanyang relo si Lolo. Napansin niyang nakaka-12 oras na siya sa paghahanap ng mabibiktima, ngunit wala pa din siyang makita. Napadaan siya sa isang sari-sari store. Napansin niyang may TV sa loob. Naisip ni lolong tumambay panandalian. 'Tayong Dalawa' ang palabas. Sarap na sarap si Lolo sa panood, hanggang sa...
Apo 5: Hay, naku Aling Nena, yan na naman pinapanood niyo replay na kaya yan, magaaway dyan si Gerald at Jake kasi pinagseselosan nila si Kim. Pabili ngang softdrinks!
Lolo: Apo 5!?
Apo 5: Ho? Ako ba kausap niyo?
Lolo: Oo! Lolo mo to? Di mo ba ko nakikilala?
Apo 5: Patay na ho Lolo ko. Ka-miss din yung matandang yun minsan eh. Kahit alam kong favorite nya yung isa kong kapatid. Pero okay na sakin yun kahit sino pang favorite niya kahit papaano di din naman siya nakakalimot bigyan ako ng aginaldo pag pasko.
Aling NENA[Extra]: Oh ito na softdrinks mo!!
Apo 5: Sige Aling Nena Salamat. Sige ho, una na din ako sa inyo manong.

Napabuntung-hininga na naman si Lolo sa ikalimang pagkakataon. Hindi maipinta ang tuwa ni Lolo sa narinig. Parang habang dumadaan ang oras gumagaan ang kanyang pakiramdam.

SCENE 10: LUST

Makalipas ang 15 oras, wala pa ding kapaguran si Lolong naghahanap ng mabibiktima, ngunit mukhang minamalas ang matanda. Napadpad si Lolo sa isang bangketa. Nakita niya ang isang tumpok ng mga taong mukhang may pinagkakaguluhan. Gusto mang maki-usyoso ni lolo ngunit sa edad niya ay di niya magawa. Hanggang may nakita siyang isang binatilyo at tinanong kung ano ang dahilan ng kaguluhan. Hindi niya namalayang si Apo 6 pala ang binatilyong ito.
Lolo: Iho!? Ano ba yang kaguluhan na iyan?
Apo 6: Ah eh, pinagkakaguluhan po kasi yung video scandal ni Dr. Hayden Kho at Katrina Halili eh.
Lolo: Ah ganun ba!!
Apo 6: Oho, mauna na ko sainyo.
Lolo: Teka, Apo 6 ikaw ba yan? Oo ikaw nga yan apo ko!
Apo 6: Ho? Patay na ho ang lolo ko. Saka ang layo niyo po sa kanya eh, kasi kahit matanda na yon japorms pa din yun eh. Dun nga ako natutong magpa-pogi eh para madami lumapit saking chicks. Pero nung namatay siya, stick to one na lang ako, wala ng taga-bigay sakin ng pang-date eh. Saka ngayon ko lang din na-realize na mas masarap pala yung feeling pag stick to one ka.

Sa ikaanim na pagkakataon napabuntung-hininga muli si Lolo. Walang nasabi sa narinig. Hindi niya akalaing iniidolo pala siya ni Apo 6. At lalong hindi siya makapaniwalang ang chickboy na apo niyang si Apo 6 ay magiging one-woman-man.

SCENE 11: SLOTH

Nakakaramdam na ng pagod at antok si Lolo. Ikaw ba naman and maglakad buong hapon at magdamag? Sige nga! Halos magbebente-kwatro oras na at wala pa din siyang makita na mabibiktima kahit isa. Napad-pad siya sa park. Nakakita ng bench at doon umupo. Tumingin muli si Lolo sa kanyang relo, alas-5 na ng umaga, isang oras na lang at malapit ng matapos ang itinakdang oras.

Papikit na ang mata ni Lolo nang, may marinig siyang paparating. Alam mo na siyempre kung sino yun!! Si Apo 7! Suot ang kanyang jogging pants at sweat shirt, pawis na pawis na lumapit sa kinauupuan ng matanda si Apo 7.

Apo 7: Ok ba kayo dyan manong? Aga niyo ah, madalas ako nauuna dito sa park mag-jogging ah!
Lolo: Apo?! Ang lolo mo to?
Apo 7: Apo?! Lolo? Patay na ho ang lolo ko! Sana nga nabubuhay pa siya ngayon para makita niya na hindi na ko tanghali magising at madalas na ko magexercise. Haay!! Siguro kung buhay pa siya kasama ko siya ngayong nagjojogging! Oh paano Manong!, una na ko, nakaka-isang ikot pa lang ako eh!

(Alam mo na!) Napabuntung-hininga muli si Lolo. Hindi na alam ang kanyang nararamdaman. Eh Ikaw ba naman ang maramdaman lahat ng emosyon sa loob ng isang araw hindi ko na alam kung ano pang dapat mong maramdaman!

LAST SCENE: JUDGMENT DAY

Napatingin muli si Lolo sa kanyang relo. Napansin niyang dumating na ang takdang panahon. Oras na para sunduin siyang muli ni SANTI. Biglang nabalot ng dilim ang lugar na kinatatayuan ni Lolo. Lumakas ang hangin, hanggang unti-unting nag-init ang pakiramdam ni Lolo. Hanggang sa..

SANTI: Wahahahaha!!! Wahahahaha!!
Lolo: Haayz.. Andito na naman ako!!, makikita ko na naman ang hinyupak.
SANTI: Wat up?! Lolo! Anong balita?
Lolo: Eto, wala akong nabiktima, ang hirap naman ng pinaggawa mo sakin eh!
SANTI:Kung alam mo lang lolo, kitang-kita ko ang lahat ng mga pinaggagawa mo pagbalik mo sa lupa. Nakakasuka! Ang emo mo masyado! May pabuntung-hininga ka pang nalalaman.
Lolo: Wapakels! Ano bang problema mo! Eh sa natutuwa akong nakita ko muli ang mga apo ko eh! Ang sarap ng pakiramdam na pinapahalagahan ako ng aking mga apo!
SANTI: Hay naku Lolo! Stop it na! Masyado ka atang nanonood ng telenovela! Ang drama mo masyado!
Lolo: Wala lang nagmamahal sa'iyo! You're such a LOSER!
SANTI: Hay! Whatever!!
Lolo: Oh ano na? Ano bang verdict mo sakin?
SANTI: Handa ka na ba Lolo?
Lolo: Game!!
SANTI: Wahahaha! Kung gayon!, Dim the lights please!
Lolo: (Pilingero ampucha!, Nagpaka-Ryan Seacrest pa ata!)
SANTI: 'HELL' voted and Lolo!, I'm sorry but you are Going 'Home' tonight!!

Biglang lumakas ang hangin. Nabalot ng liwanag ang dilim. Ang apoy na nagliliyab ay napalitan ng mga puti at makakapal na ulap. Ang amoy ng abo ay napalitan ng halimuyak ng mga bulaklak. Ang halakhak ni SANTI ay napalitan ng mga awiting sinasaliwan ng trumpeta.

Hindi alam ni Lolo ang kanyang nararamdaman.. Para bang nanumbalik ang dating sigla ng kanyang katawan. Para bang walang nagbago. Para bang nagbalik siya sa kanilang tahanan at kapiling ang mga apo.

Hanggang sa... Napabuntung-hininga na lang ang Lolo mo!!

I know a man

I know a man. I know him more than he knows himself.

He tries to keep up to himself without knowing someone is watching his every move.
He walks with his shades on or if not he walks fast, without looking in any of the opposite directions, just straight to where he is going, even if sometimes he doesn't really have any specific route.

He hardly talk. He doesn't want to start a conversation. On any given day, he either talks only to a cab driver or to the waiter of a restaurant he always go to.

His days are monotonous. As early as 5:00AM he is up. He doesn't want to miss the chance to look at the sun gazing at him in his window, as if greeting him a good morning.

Taking up shower for 15 minutes is a routine. He shaves his face, puts on gel and combs his hair. He puts on his favorite white long-sleeves shirt. Tucked it in his black pants. Tied the knot and put on his coat. Lastly, he sprayed on him his favorite cologne. He always made sure that everything is perfect. He wanted to look good, and feel good. He doesn't take chances, that he might bumped into someone he has been waiting for a long time now.

At around 7:00 AM, he is ready to stroll in the streets again. He went and locked the door and started to walk. He felt the breeze of the morning air in his face, the weather is so inviting that he can't stop walking. He bumped into a lot of people, talking about politics, society, movie stars, music, school and everything else. He may not talk but he hears everything. All information are piled up in his brain that he can't figure out how to let it all out.

He decided to stop by his favorite restaurant and ordered steak. It was 12:00 Noon, the restaurant is full. Every customer is comfortably chatting in every corner of the restaurant that every word he hears seemed to be murmurs. He didn't finish his lunch. He started walking again. At around 3PM, the sky went cloudy and suddenly tiny drops of rain fell on his cheek. He continued walking. A few minutes after, the rain continued to pour and he just find himself soaking wet. He stopped by a waiting shed and decided to wait for the rain to stop.

It was almost 6PM, but the rain won't stop. He thought, he is running out of time, and so he continued walking. As always, he walked with all his head straight up. Ignoring everyone he sees at the sides of his eyes staring at him and seemed to be talking about him. He continued walking, despite all the whispers in his ears saying how stupid he is.

The rain finally stopped and his day is almost over. A few minutes left and the clock ticks to 11PM. He got one hour left before home. He wants to continue walking but he felt his feet are tired and need some rest. He saw a bench and sat on it. He felt his heart beat is faster than normal. He started gasping for air. He breathe, and breathe, until his eyes slowly closed.

THE ASSOCIATE

To all John Grisham page-turner novels avid readers out there! He has a new book out now!, "The Associate". The story is somewhat like "The Firm", which I think most law students have read, or if not, have watched the movie version which starred Tom Cruise playing the role of Mitchell Mcdeere!

So grab a copy now!!

By the way here's a synopsis of the book "The Associate":

Kyle McAvoy grew up in his father’s small-town law office in York, Pennsylvania. He excelled in college, was elected editor-in-chief of The Yale Law Journal, and his future has limitless potential.

But Kyle has a secret, a dark one, an episode from college that he has tried to forget. The secret, though, falls into the hands of the wrong people, and Kyle is forced to take a job he doesn’t want—even though it’s a job most law students can only dream about.

Three months after leaving Yale, Kyle becomes an associate at the largest law firm in the world, where, in addition to practicing law, he is expected to lie, steal, and take part in a scheme that could send him to prison, if not get him killed.

With an unforgettable cast of characters and villains—from Baxter Tate, a drug-addled trust fund kid and possible rapist, to Dale, a pretty but seemingly quiet former math teacher who shares Kyle’s “cubicle” at the law firm, to two of the most powerful and fiercely competitive defense contractors in the country—and featuring all the twists and turns that have made John Grisham the most popular storyteller in the world, THE ASSOCIATE is vintage Grisham.