I have been reading several mails I sent years ago. I never thought these can be very good reminders not only of a person’s milestones but also mishaps. One time, a female friend and I were held up by a bunch of teen-agers along Xavierville Avenue several meters away from Xavierville Subdivision’s gate. I have forgotten about it until I read my email again:
Salamat sa pag-email Jean!
Yes, I was robbed. Yet, I was robbed for a good reason!
First, the three teen-agers, each equipped with a rusty knife used for mango peeling, are impoverished. They need a source of hope and inspiration–someone that will give them joy–from a cellphone, for instance–in their aching lives. They needed to feel that the world does care for them and meets their needs.
Second, these amateur hold-uppers need jobs. Maybe soon, after they realize the innate risk and corruption their hobby gives them, they might apply for a job–Information-Technology-related perhaps. Thus, impressive records in fundraising through cellphone donation will prove to be an attractive accomplishment in each of their resumes.
Third, these immodestly honest boys are bored. They want and ask for adventure. Is it not great that I was able to help them ease the bursting desire within them to have a great adventure that even beats the reality-based television programs on the boob tube?
Thinking of you guys when you pop up in my mind,
JULY
