Around six year ago, I began to live in Malate. I could still remember my first day in school. I am planning my route to Morayta when a man from the neighborhood asked me where I am going. I answered politely and he taught me an easier way. I safely arrived in school then.
It was “Mang Gil”, that’s what they call him. I believe he is on his 50’s. He sells gas tanks, fixes televisions and he even became a baranggay konsehal.
From then on, I would pass my way to school seeing him sitting in front of their house every morning. If I have time I would give him a big smile, if at times I’m hurrying up for school I could barely give him a nod.
At nights, when I get home I could still find him in their garage. If not fixing a television set, he could be drinking with his friends or playing with the little children. . But most of the time I would see him just sitting on his favorite chair and looking afar.
I must admit “Mang Gil” became my daily routine. We get used of going outside the house and finding him around. For almost 6 years he never changed.
Lately this year, I found out something eccentric but kind of funny about him. He got this videoke TV and he would sing all night long or all day long just gazing at the lyrics. I even saw myself in him in that way.
I even thought of reaching out to him, knowing their family deeply and not just become mere neighborhoods. Then I realized something..for something changed my plan…
This morning of the 14th of December
I woke up early, went out early…the thing I usually does everyday. But something caught my attention…
“Mang Gil” is not around this morning. That’s unusual. I turned my head through their garage and I felt something weird in me. I told myself “something is really wrong” but because my focus is my way to my duty I ignored that kind of feeling. I Enjoyed the day and by 9:36 pm I rode the last train trip home.
I could see it from afar. Bright lights…is there a party? But as I came closer, I saw white flowers, formed in a circle and then ribbons with written words in it…”Condolence”
My heart skipped a bit. Goosebumps conquered me. I can’t be wrong….I didn’t even had the courage to ask what’s going on…because I knew it. That’s why the garage in front of our apartment looks lifeless this morning. “Mang Gil” passed away. Stroke they said.
It made me realized how short life is. We really have to live it at its fullest. Learn to experience life itself. Reach out, its maybe too late. Don’t be afraid to love.
“Mang Gil” had been a symbol of life for me, even if I did not get the chance to know him better, the smiles he gave us every morning would have been very precious. In memory he may be, he will always be remembered as someone who taught me to smile each morning and start the day right.
May “ Mang Gil” rest in peace and be with God etrnally.
Perhaps he has served his purpose.
Come to think of it...what about us...are we serving our purpose already?
