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Saturday, July 29, 2023

My Journal -- September 2008

 September 4, 2008

 

After sweeping in the buladan, I washed my uniform. After that, Aileen hired me as a laborer in concreting her kitchen walls. Kuya Ungak was the foreman. It was my first time working in such construction. It was hard but most of the time, I was just sitting and waiting.

 

At three pm, I stopped working so that I could prepare myself.

 

Efear texted me, announcing that the poem I made and sent to him yesterday was already a song. He put melody on it. I was glad, but I did not converse with him for a long time. I just replied.

 

Here’s the poem:

 

ONE MURKY NIGHT

 

We met and we drank one murky night

Two huge bottles did not blur our sight

When I was almost a rabid dog

Pretending I could not yet see fog

We went to a deserted barn dance

Banged our heads upon our entrance

No one would care to shoo us away

Although we roughly swerve and sway

It did not matter how we get home

But when we get up with the spume

The culprit? We denied, but God knows

`Cause t’was on the midst of our pillows.

 

I reported in the 2nd and 3rd period classes. In my first report, my classmates were so alive. I made them laugh using personal experiences. They enjoyed my report. Though it would be continued on Tuesday, I knew it did not matter to them. I could also see Sir Dipad smiling over my antics.

 

In the last report, I did well. Ma’am Golloso understood it, and so as my classmates. I hoped I would be exempted from the final exam.

 

I wrote a lesson plan of a Four-Pronged approach so that I could give it to Ma’am Girado morrow.

 

 

 

September 5, 2008

 

Minutes after waking up, I was already working on my big book. I was so excited to see it in its final face.

 

I made it at ten o- clock. It was wonderful. Hanna and Zildjian would surely like it. That was made for them.

 

Taking a nap after lunch weakened me. I wanted to sleep all day, but I had to get up. I could not afford to be absent. While invigorating, I text conversed with Efear. I have learned that he applied in a call center yesterday.

 

Before I went to the library at 8:30, I let first Ma’am Girado check my lesson plan. She said, “Magayon na `yon.” She commented, “Provide more activities.” She said it before she left.

 

While I was in my last period class, Efear texted me. He said, “Somtyms things change. Plans fail. Joy fades. Excitements gone. U start to question why. Bt when u look beyond. Real friends remain. Pwd mo b to gwan ng poem ung emo? Gwin q ulit knta. Pg di kn mtamlay ha.”

 

I replied, confirming my agreement. Immediately, I started it.

 

At seven-thirty, I was in the library, writing a poem.

 

I slept early at 9:30

 

 

 

September 6, 2008

 

Dishwashing was the first thing I did after waking up. Then, I opened the store. While I was there, I was text-conversing with Jeff about the ‘One Murky Night.’

 

At nine-thirty, I was in the market.

 

While cooking, Tina and I were texting. She opened up the incident that happened last night, between her and Malanie Franche. At first, I was not totally interested with her clash with Malanie, but when she said, “An comment nia s imo, mhiligon k dw mgami8 cn word n d man msyado inga2mit & maintindihan. Tas mhiligon k mg-example cn sdiri mo. Tas inppara-impersonate ka pa.”

 

I knew also that she was not saying it to me for me to feel angry to Malanie. She said, she just wanted me to be aware. It made me so aware and mad.

 

I took a nap after lunch.

 

At quarter to five, Jay-R texted me. It has been a long time since he last texted me. We regarded each other. And he asked me to give him a text mate. He wanted a beautiful one. I promised him, but I would look for one yet on Monday.

 

Flor texted me at 6:30. I immediately regarded Hanna. I have learned that my daughter was already eating well. She said, “Grabe! Anlakas. Nakakapagtaka nga e.” And when I asked her if she was still writing, Flor said that she was. In fact, the house was always cluttered. Flor said, “Kaya lang pangit ugali. Mana yata kay Mj.” I felt mad for Flor. Why did she have to say that? She did not reply when I asked her, “Anong ugali?”

 

Before I slept at 10:30 pm, I text-conversed again with Tinax. I told her that I was planning to change my dealing with some of them because of what had happened.

 

 

 

September 7, 2008

 

I did not go to church today. I just did nothing. I only cooked, dish washed, and dilly-dallied.

 

Aileen gave me P100 at 5:30. It was the payment for my labor last Thursday.

 

I slept early at 9:30 pm.

 

 

 

September 8, 2008

 

Sweeping was the first thing I did when I got up at past seven o’ clock. Then, I stayed in the store while doing visual aids for my demo lesson tomorrow.

 

At past 9, I sent my poem that I wrote after the ‘One Murky Night.” It was untitled when I sent it to him. Then, he entitled it ‘Forever.’ It goes like this.

 

In the world of uncertainty

No one is steady

Everything is in variety

Vanishing so quickly

Sometimes, things change

Plans fail

Joy fades

Excitements go

You start to question why

But when you look beyond

Real friends remains

Yes, it’s certainly true

I will stay the same

He stayed, he will forever

Even the distance meddles

We can put it out our way

There will be no failure

No more fading, no lying-low

Sometimes is not endless

Like what we are

In the ever-changing world

We are constant, changeless

Friends come and go

There’s always goodbye

But sometimes is not forever

His seldom, it is not everlasting

Forever we will cherish

Tween us, it’s a promise.

 

 

Immediately, right after I started another poem. It goes like this:

 

Sabay tayong mangarap

Abutin ang tuktok ng ulap

Sabay tayong lumipad

Malalayang ibon ating katulad

Sabay taying maglakbay

Sa agos ng ating buhay

Tunguhin natin angndaigdig nila

Baguhin natin, tuloy magpakilala

Na tayong dalawa

Sa pangarap ay iisa

Halika, sabayan mo ako

Sa pagtahak ng tagumpay ko

Tayo na, sundan mo ako

Lumikha tayo ng bagong mundo

Naghihintay roon ang ating trono

Doon ay aawit tayo

Mag-iingay hangga’t gusto

Ating buuin, bawat pangarap natin

Doon sa bagong mundo natin

Ating puksain, ating lipulin

Kaharian ng kabiguan

Sapagkat bukas, tayo’y mag-aawitan.

 

My school day has been okay. It was like the other days. I participated in the Q&A portion of the report at Prof Ed 6. And at Prof Ed 7, Tina, Celine, and I talked about how mean some of our fellows are.

 

After dinner, I wrote a speech. It will be read or recite it tomorrow at Prof Ed 3 and 13 before I start my reports. It goes like this:

 

Before I continue or start my report, I want to ask something (about how you like my report or the way of my reporting).

1.     Who says my report is boring?

2.     Who says my style of giving reports is not effective?

For those who are sick and tired of listening to my report or especially to how I take myself and other accounts of my life as examples in our topic, you shut up. Better yet, you got out. If you think you’re already intelligent enough to be in this institution, why are you here? You are supposed to be teaching now.

 

Remember, like you. I’m also a student. Though I’m taking up units, it doesn’t mean that I am a perfect reporter.

 

Don’t judge me because you’re not in the right place to do so.

 

“Fool men talk becomes they have to say something. Wise men talk because they have something to say. Be a wise man!”

 

This is intended for Malanie and Cheryl, as well as for those who misunderstood me.

 

At nine-twenty, Mj and I text-conversed. We talked about the text of Flor about Hanna, the estimation of yero in our roofless house and Zildjian’s acts.

 

She was furious about Flor’s comment (Pangit ang ugali ni Hanna.) Then, she worried that our son turns out gay when he grows up. I advised her to keep the feminine things and expose him to the manly toys, as well as to quit calling him bading. We both hope that it was not a sign. She said that Michael, her brother, had been like that before.

 

Contemporarily, Tina and I were also texting. We talked about my speech. She asked for some parts of it. She said, “Laglag ang pustiso nian ni Franchie. Malamang sya nman ang mgwalkout.”

 

 

 

September 9, 2008

 

After sweeping, I had nothing to do anymore. Thus, I stayed in the store. At quarter to 9, I studied. I prepared my report and demo lesson. I also read the computer dictionary that I borrowed from Ate Che as preparation for my report. I stayed there until lunch time.

 

I watched tv after lunch until 2:30.

 

At 3, I was already in school. I just bought a battery for my N6103 cell phone. I was tired waiting for Taiwan’s promise.

 

I waited so long for 4 pm. I was excited to deliver my Four-Pronged Approach demo.

 

Demonstration. It was good. They all like my big book. All participated in the discussion. They understand it. While doing the demo, I let them sign my big book. After it, Ma’am Girado commented. She said, “Dianison talaga si Froilan.” My classmates kept on saying ‘Exempted na!” But Ma’am did not say it. Besides, I did not like the idea.

 

My classmates’’ messages on the big book go like these:

1.     ‘Idol n akita, Sir!” – Jasmin Esmeria

2.     ‘Bcoz of u, I dreamed of becoming a teacher din.” – Mitzz

3.     ‘You’re a very good teacher’ – Janet Dgamo

4.     ‘Have a good teaching profession.’ – Vhic

5.     ‘Keep up the good work! Tsup! Tsup!’ –Bernadeth Naga

6.     ‘You’re the best kuya for me. Gudluck & God bless!” – Jelisa Guelas

Ma’am Girado said or signed “There’s a sign that you’ll be a very successful teacher someday! Congratulations! You’ll become the best educator someday! Keep up the good work!”

 

Then, at 6:20, I texted all my classmates, who gave or wrote their cp numbers in my big book. I thanked them for their messages. I almost forgot my annoyance with Melay.

 

Mj and I conversed in text. She regarded my exam. I told her that it was okay. In fact, I only got one mistake in a subject. Then, I told her about the wonderful messages of my classmates in the big book.

 

 

 

September 10, 2008

 

I woke up early so that I could start the laundry early. But, before that, I helped in doing household chores. Is wept the clutters, I dish washed, and fired the leftover food. At nine, I was doing another task. But I was directed to do marketing of food.

 

After cooking, I watched tv as well as after lunch.

 

I was in school at 2:30.

 

During my vacant period, I was in the library. Then, Ate Che and Tina invited me to eat in the canteen. We ate and conversed there. The topics were all about relationships.

 

I was home at 7;40. After eating, I helped Eking with his project. Then, at 8:30, I sent the poem to Efear, that I wrote on September 8. He has not replied yet.

 

I texted Mj that I was thinking of going to Antipolo City on Sunday since we were going to have an Intramurals from September 15 to 20. She has not replied yet.

 

I also texted Tina. I told her that Malani approached me. The former did not answer back, as well. What was happening to these people?

 

 

 

September 11, 2008

 

At six-twenty, I was already downstairs, doing household chores. Then, Ate Ningning and I cooked kakanin for merienda.

 

I was waiting for Mj’s text. I wanted to know if she liked the idea, and if I could bring home the money, we would use in the roofing of our house in Polot.

 

I missed my kids. I’m also excited to have my own settlement.

 

I went to school early at 3 pm. I just read ‘Do-It-Yourself’ book in the library. I was looking for a project, an artwork to be undertaken.

 

My co-methodists were still planning for bonding moment. I, however, did not commit. I told them that I was planning to go to Antipolo City on Sunday.

 

Tinax texted me. She too did not like to join because of her gap with Malanie.

 

 

 

 

September 12, 2008

 

After sweeping, I cleaned upstairs.

 

At seven, I watched ‘Barnyard: The Original Party Animals’ on HBO Channel. It was an animated film. I have learned a quote “A strong man stands up for himself. A stronger man stands up for others.” I pursued watching tv until eleven-thirty.

 

After I took a nap, I decided to go to school early due to boredom. At least, in school, I could read in the library. So, I did.

 

At five pm, the song composed by Efear arrived. He sent it at 9. The song goes like this:

 

WHEN YOU LOOK BEYOND

 

Chorus:

But/Coz when you look beyond

Real friend remains… oh

Yes, it’s certainly true

I will stay the same.

 In this world of uncertainty

No one is steady

Everything is in variety

Vanishing so quickly

When everything has changed

When =everything seems so far away

When excitement is gone

And you start to question why.

 

Friends come and go

There’s always goodbye

But sometimes is not forever

Like what we are

In the ever-changing world

No matter how we don’t have to worry

Even the distance meddles

We can put our way.

 

(Repeat Chorus)

 

(I will stay the same)

Even when I’m left behind

(I will stay the same)

Even when I start to cry

(Will stay the same)

Whenever there’s a pain inside

(I will stay the same)

Every time you said goodbye.

 

(Repeat Chorus)

 

I will stay the same (3x)

 

(Fade)

 

At seven-thirty, I was reading in the library. I decided not to go home early, although I was so hungry already.

 

 

 

September 13, 2008

 

I woke up at past six so that I could recharge my cell phone’s battery. Then, I swept the dried leaves in the yards. I also watered my bonsai trees, as well as Aileen’s plants.

 

At nine, Ate Quennie gave me P200. She has just received her very first salary.

 

At ten, I was done cooking.

 

I took a nap before I went to Polot at 1 pm.

 

While having a rest, I decided to re-roof the smaller part of the house instead of the big one because of the budget. Eight thousand is not enough for the corrugated steel roof. I estimated that the big part will consume 25 pieces, including the balcony or porch.

 

At past 5, I left Polot.

 

I was fascinated by the Pinoy Dreamers’ performances. I remembered Efear, who was starting to love music. The number performed by Yeng Constantino and the six finalists made me determined to write songs for my friend. I knew, someday Epr will be famous.

 

 

 

September 14, 2008

 

It was 7;30 when I woke up. I immediately sought something to do because Mama Leling was not in a good mood.

 

At eight-thirty, I replied to Jano’s text (“2L musta? My alumni tau s Dec. P500 ang ambagan! Ksma ntin ang IV-2.”) He was talking about Antipolo National High School-Annex very first alumni homecoming. I told him that it’s costly. Then, I regarded Hanna. He said ‘Mataba na.” I was glad to know it.

 

At ten-thirty, after watching tv, I washed my clothes.

 

At twelve, Papay Benson latently annoyed me. It was after he asked for my help in taking out the big branch so that it would not hit the cable and electric wires. It was as if it was my fault that it fell immediately. In my anger, I cursed him secretly and stayed in the vacant house. I asked pardon from the Lord later. It was not the first time he did it to me. He did not consider the possible consequences of his or our actions.

 

One time, he wanted me to catch the huge jackfruit, which was much bigger than my torso. How could I? Shit!

 

I took a nap after my anger cooled down. At three pm. I got up. I then started writing a poem.

 

At past five, I had made it.

 

I

What a girl you had

She came with another lad

They met in the church

Which hurts you so much

It’s okay, it doesn’t matter

As long as we could still holler.

 

II

We’re one hour late

We missed the Christmas eve

What a night we had

She made it very bad

It’s okay, she’s just a whore

But, the night left us no more

We were so much late

We just did not separate

Tried to catch some fun

Before the rising of the sun

 

III

You laughed at me

When I quaffed the grande

Kicked by the red horse

Good thing, I didn’t disagree

Though my world turned `round

I know, you’re off the ground

I secretly laughed at you

Coz it affected you so.

 

I wondered why Mj did not text me.

 

 

 

 

September 15, 2008

 

I woke up early. Thus, I had to do household chores. I also started preparing our viand. At nine-thirty, I was done cooking.

 

I was still anticipating Mj’s text. I started to worry. I did not know what had happened. I knew I had not hurt her feelings.

 

From 12;30 to 5 pm, I was watching tv. I just took a nap at 2:30 pm. Then, I started cooking.

 

After cooking, I sent the poem I wrote yesterday to Efear. He said, “He he. Astig, tol!” But he wanted me to make it longer. Bad thing, that the ultimate idea, I could remember. He told me that he would try to reminisce about it.

 

Despite slightly drizzling weather conditions, I still went to RGCC at 7:30 pm. Of course, I asked permission from Mama Leling. Also, I contacted Tina and Padi Glenn.

 

The Search for Mr. and Ms. Intrams 2008 started at 8 pm. I could not find Tina. Glenn arrived but he did not join me in having a shed under the speaker, where a good view was abundant and shelter from drizzle was present.

 

At 8:45 pm, Mj texted me. She said, “Elow! My skit Zj e, 4dys n my lgnat, ubo. Ayw kumain at dede. Knabitan nga suwero knina. Blik uli kmi dktor pra s xray. Txt u Jano hram u me kht 5h. Wla n kc aq pmp-xray at pmbili gmot Zj. Mkusap k n lng. Kuninq dun bkas.”

 

I immediately forwarded it to Jano. But he did not reply. Then, I texted Mj. Here are some of her replies:

1.     Bgla lng. Mlkas n nga sna sya kumain. NHwa ky Akisha. Uso skt s mga bta ngaun, gnun din ung mga kasabay q knina nsuwero din.”

2.     “D nmn reply Jano. Cge gudnyt n. Nhihilo kc aq at ngsusuka. Sobrang pagod at puyat ky Zj. Gs2 lagi karga. Slep na q ha? Gudnyt. Txt n lng q bkas.”

I pity Zj and Mj. I was feeling guilty. I should not have In RGCC while my loved ones were suffering. Thus, I did not tell Mj my whereabout.

 

It was 11:30 when I got home.

 

 

 

September 16, 2008

 

I only had a few hours of sleep. Mosquitoes pestered me all night long. It was six when I woke up.

 

At seven-thirty, I wrote two stanzas of the poem-song, that Efear was missing out. It goes like this.

 

What a holiday, it was

Where’s the color of Christmas

The place turned black

It sucks, it did not rock!

Alas, we’re on our best get-up

Thus, on my mind, idea popped!

Visiting your girl was the last resort

We went there to court.

 

I laughed at you

And out the blame on you

You laughed at me

And put the blame on me

We laughed at each other.

And blamed one another’

Ha ha ha! Who’s the jinx?

 

 

Jano etxted me at 9:04. He said “Txt ko c Gie. Sya my hawak ng budget nmin e. Mgtext krin ky Tai1, s Antipolo n pmpasok un, e,para mpuntahan nrin.”

 

Mj texted me at 12:40. She said, “Pkibgay u nga no, Taiwan. Wla dw pera Jano e. Kelangan q tlga dlhin s doktor Zj.”

 

I replied and we conversed. Here are her answers:

1.     Wla k b mautangan jan, wla n tlga lhat. Nlapitan q n. Puro utang n nga aq e, d p reply Tai1. Bka mkgawa k ng paraan jan. bayaran n lng ntin.”

2.     “Wla na. Umutang na aq ky Clove. 3h. Kay Lola 5h. Ky Ate Jeny 5h. Ky Mchel 4h. Ky Mykl 5h. Wla n tlga. Wla pera T2 Jun. Twag p kmi T. Jay mya.Kelan p un dting.”

3.     Pnhilot, pntawas q n. D mwla lgnat at ubo. Ayw kumain, dumede. Ngtatae p. Pumyat n nga e. Kelngan sya xray. Ngmana p ata sau Zj.”

4.     “My xray nman n pmbta. Ska sbi ng dctor. Ibbalik q p dpat ngaun. Wla p nga pera.”

I was very sad to know all about this. I pity Mj and Zj. But I did not want to ask help from Papay Benson or anybody here because, first, I knew they were in crisis as well. And last, I dd not want to drown myself in a deep gratitude. I just hoped and prayed that Mj could provide the amount.

 

After supper, I visited my stamp collection. I planned to buy a magnetic photo album, where I could keep my stamps. Then, I started making miniature books. It would be my next collection.

 

I went upstairs at past nine. I prayed to God, asking Him to heal Zildjian.

 

 

 

September 17, 2008

 

At past six, I was sweeping while having coffee. After that, I was pursuing bookmaking. At eight, I was done. It was 80%. It was almost done. Yet, I must put on the words.

 

I was about to buy a magnetic photo album, but I went back home thinking I needed money. I should not prioritize my hobbies. Besides, I could not spend it on not-so-important things when my son’s suffering from a sickness and my wife was problematic.

 

I’m worried yet anticipating Mj’s text. It hurts me so much. I could not do anything, except prayer.

 

Before twelve, I finished my miniature book. And I also sent the two stanzas to Efear. He said, “Whoaah! The best yuletide experience. Sucks! Ok ini d best!”

 

At four pm, Mj texted me. She said, “Nkaconfine c Zj ngaun d2 sa Unciano. Kelngan n e, dhil hanggang nagun ayaw kumain at dumede kht 2big. Pkisbi n lng s pmilya u.”

 

I did not reply. I did not know what to say. I knew Mj felt sad and disappointed in my family. I was so ashamed. Thus, when Efear texted me, I told him my problem. He advised me to reply to Mj and make an explanation. But I did not do it. I waited for her second message, which was “Nsa ospital Zj. My amoeba dn. Imbes n ubo at lagnat lng ggmutin, Nkita rn s xray, primary Koch’s infection, 2lad sau.”

 

I replied and we had a short conversation.

 

I pty Zildjian. I knew too how hard it was for Mj.

 

Mj texted me again at 6:44. She said, “Humingi k nman ng 2long ky Auntie Vangie. Wla n tlga aq mlapitan. D q mkontak T.Nck o T. Jay. Sna mkgwa k ng paraan.” She also sent

 

“Hingi k nman ng 2long s mga kpatid mo.”

 

I immediately texted Auntie Vangie. She replied quickly. Thus, I had the guts to reply to Mj.

 

Auntie Vangie did not fail me, but my brothers did not answer my text messages.

 

Mj also said “Sna mkhingi k ng 2long. Hndi k n kya i-shoulder ang gastos. D n mganda nririnig q s knla lalo n ky Nnay.”

 

As always, Nanay’s acting like that as if she’s not the granny of my kids. It’s not new to me.

 

God is punishing me for I’m not going to church for many Sundays.

 

Auntie promised that she would contact Jano. She did not want mama to get the money there. “Mapapagod pa,” she said. Later, we talked. I have told her the opportunity of living in Polot is due to necessity. In enlivening the conversation, she told me to pray and pray.

 

While writing this, I was not worrying too much. God is great! He provided us. All we need is Zj’s full and fast recovery.

 

At 8:48, Taiwan replied. He asked what happened. Then he pleaded to give P500 for Zj’s hospital bill. I thanked him.

 

 

 

September 18, 2008

 

I was sleepless due to toothache.

 

It was past eight when I read Mj’s messages, which were sent to me earlier, while I was recharging my mobile phone. According to her, Jano and Gie had been to the hospital where Zj was confined in. And he gave her P1,000. But Mj did not know if it was the amount given by Auntie Vangie. Jano, as well, did not tell her.

 

I told Mj that I felt ashamed to text and ask again Auntie Vangie. So, we must presume that the amount was from Auntie, not from Jano’s pocket.

 

At nine, Jenny texted me. She told me that they would visit Zj tonight. Then, we had a long conversation about many things like what Mj-and-I’s plan, her uneasiness with Gie, and their plan of going home to Bulan. We bade goodbye at 11:30.

 

At one-twenty-four, Mj sent this to me: “Pnay lng 2log Zj. Ayw p rn nya dumede s bote. S akib lng ky lng bhira pero sabaw paunti unti tintnggap n nya. Kpag d n sya nlgnat mghapon pwd n kmi uwi tom.”

 

It gladdened me, but when she said, “Ei, temporary bill nmin P4580. Wla p doktor dyn. E, pra bukas p. Bka 6 or 7t.”

 

It saddened me a lot. I asked how we could provide it, but she stopped replying.

 

At four-forty, Taiwan sent this message to me: “2l, d2 n kmi s Unciano, ang payat n ng anak mu.” I was not surprised, but I felt sad.

 

Before I closed my eyes to sleep, I talked to God. I thanked Him and asked for financial help. I knew Mj’s still in terrible crisis and in need.

 

 

 

September 19, 2008

 

At past six, I was sweeping.

 

I texted Mj, asking her about Zj’s condition. She replied, “Lalabas n kmi. Ngbbyad n lng. P7365 bill.”

 

I was so shocked to know the bill. Ye, I was glad and thankful that my son was okay now. I was just worried that our plan of roofing our house in Polit was in danger.

 

Mj said, “Un nga e, utang tlaga un. Kya medyo purnada tlga pmbubong. Tnwagn q T. Nck at T. Jay d smsagot. C Lola n nga gmawa ng paraan.”

 

Then, I told her it’s okay, “Ganun tlga.”

 

At past 12, Jano texted me. He said, “Tol, musta n Zj, nkuha ko n pera ky A. Vangie. 5k, kaltasin ko na P1500 n nbgay ko ky Mj ksi pngrenew ko un ng license.”

 

I and Mj were so disappointed to him. We thought it was his share or help to us. But it’s okay (again). Then, we text-conversed. Here are his text messages and replies:

            Jano: Ok kung ganon! Alicin u n kc ang family mo.Kwwa nmg-iina mo e. Sge ingat k dyan. Txt u nlang c Ant. Vangie.

            Me: My hnhintay kming pera pmpbubong sna. Panu nga? Ipanbbyad lng.

            Jano: Mgsama2 n kau kung saan tlga kau, wag u n cla iasa sa iba. Kaya u un. Hrap lng un s umpsa.

            Me: Un nga plano. D2 ng km isa Polot. Lalo n pg nkpg2ro n aq. Pwd n aq mgboard exam after dis sem. Kya lng, mlaking pera ang pgfile s PRC.

            Jano: Wag u n muna hntyin n mging prop ka, drating dn un, unahin u pmilya u, kc mkk2long dn sau un. Kya mo un! Kysa nman ganyan.

            Me: Hindi n nga. Ang hnhintay nmin ang mabubungan ung hauz s Polot. D nmn pwd n itira q cla d2 kna Ppay Benson. Ms mhirap!

            Jano: Wag un n hntyin pera n un, umpisahan u n dyab khit tolda, drating nlang ang 2long pg dyan n kau.

            Me: Ha ha! Utay-utay? Nkktwa nman un. Gstos din un khit tolda. Sa lng d n kmi pgbyarin n A. Vangie pra mkabili ng yero.

            Jano: Ganon tlga s umpisa. Bubong lng problema pb yan. Mlalaki n anak u, mhrap na iasa un s iba.

 

His final message annoyed me a lot. He was a jerk! I did not know if he knew how much a roofing would cost. Besides, he thought I was abandoning my family and letting them finance their needs forever. He did not know my mind. I was planning for my mag-iina.

 

He did not reply. It was a good thing because I might have said bad words to him. If he did not like Hanna’s presence in their house, then he must tell Mama.

 

At past five, I thanked Auntie Vangie. I also promised that O would pay her back as soon as possible. But when she replied she told me that it was not ‘Utang.’ She gave it to me as help. I thanked her again. I was so glad.

 

At 8;30, Mj and I were texting. I told her about my bad feelings towards Jano. I also learned that Hanna was with her. I suggested that she would not give Hanna again to them.

 

Before we stopped conversing, we agreed upon anahaw leaves as our roof in Polot’s house.

 

I thanked God for the blessings.

 

 

 

September 20, 2008

 

Flor texted me at 8;30, thirty minutes after Mj texted. She asked me if she could bring Hanna to Bautista. She also said “Anu byan. Npka mtmpuhin m naman.” She has learned about Jano’s bad words. I did not reply because I had no load.

 

Before nine, I went to Bulasu and conversed with Ate Quennie. I went home at past 10.

 

Mj sent this to me at 11:26: “Msta? Nsa akin n ung pera 3,400 n lng. Bnwas p ni Jano ung pnmsahe.”

 

Sh*t! He’s in great need! He’s more needy than us! God bless him, huh.

 

I was vacant almost the whole day. I just cooked champorado at 3 pm. Then, at 5:30, I prepared our dinner.

 

At 9, I was already upstairs. Mj sent this to me at 10: “Elow! Bkas n lng kta load ha? Tnmad aq lumabas. Humili pla aq mlk ng kids ska gmot Zj knina/ Cge bkas n lng. Gudnyt.”

 

 

 

September 21, 2008

It has been raining since last might. I was supposed to go to church today, but I decided not to. Thus, I stayed upstairs. Later, I pursued writing the novel. Then, I came up to a decision that it would be entitled with “Dumb Found.” It is one word; however, it was separated so that it would fit the story.

 

It was 8 pm when Mj replied to my text message, I sent at 9:30 am. She said, “D2 c Hnna. D q pinsama ky Flor. Ok n c Zj. Kmkain n sya paunti unti. Blk kmi s doktr 24 4 chck up. Ska pra mkta xray kung my tama, 6 mos n gamutan un.”

 

I was so sad to know that my son might undergo such medication. Yet, I was hopeful that it would not happen. Thus, I advised Mj to take care of them very well. I told her to keep them away from electric fan and contaminated water.

 

And when she told me that Tito Jay would not give s again for roofing, I was so sad and disappointed. However, I accepted the fact that it’s God’s will. I told her, “Kya mhrap tlg hmingi mg 2long.”

 

Then, she said, “If evr b mngailngan uli aq dnq hhingi kn Jno. Bngyan dn pls c Mama u ni Auntie. 1k. Bnwasan p dn n Jnao. Ska d n sya bnbigyan n Jano.”

 

My anger towards him increased. I did not know why he was like that. He has work and was receiving salary regularly, but then he was still in crisis, huh!

 

At nine-thirty, I was already catching sleep.

 

I prayed to God, asking Him to protect my children from sickness and help me in my teaching career for I am eager to build my home in Polot.

 

 

 

 

September 22, 2008

 

At six, I was already sweeping the clutter made by the storm Nina. After breakfast, I went upstairs and did writing. I included the chorus of my composition ‘When You Look Beyond.” It was sung by one of my main characters in the novel, ‘Dumb Found.’

 

Aileen did the cooking. I was the one who did the dishwashing. I pursued writing after that.

 

In the library, at 3:20, I spent the vacant period in writing. And before I walked home at 7:30, I also did. I finished the 5th chapter.

 

 

 

 

September 23, 2008

 

At six-thirty, I was doing household chores. Mama Leling told or asked me later if I could buy her textiles in Sorsogon. I accepted the task immediately. Then, I prepared myself.

 

At ten, I was already in Sorsogon. At two pm, I was already home. I was feeling dizzy. Good thing, today, my schedule is from 4 pm to 8;30. I still have time to rest.

 

I have fallen asleep. It was 3:55 when I woke up. Thus, I expedited my moves. I was minutes late for my first period class.

 

Tinax told me, though I have seen her talking with Melai, that the latter apologized to her already. I was partly happy because she needed to say sorry to me as well.

 

On our second period class, I did not mingle with them. I was still mad at her. Yet, I was willing to accept her apology if ever. Along as she would not do it again to me and to others.

 

Ma’am Golloso was absent. So, Salve Jardin invited us to their house in Managa-naga. I joined them since it was only 7 pm. I thought we were just going to eat, but we were there pala to drink. But it was okay. It was my first time to bond with them in that manner.

 

Good thing, the brandy-iced tea punch was well-mixed. It was not too bitter, not too hard. I liked it. It was smooth to the esophagus.

 

We sang along. I sang many times. We laughed and talked. I also met Ate Salve’s husband, who’s a policeman.

 

It was 9:30 when we left Ate Salve’s home. At ten pm, I got home. Good thing, the door was still open. Mama Leling was waiting for me. I told her that I watched a program in the Bulan Freedom Park. She did not ask any.

 

At 10, I was text-conversing with Efear.

 

I slept at 11:30 pm.

 

 

 

 

September 24, 2008

 

At past six, I was sweeping the yard. Alter, I did laundry. I finished washing before 8 am.

 

At 2:30, I was already in school. Alas! Ma’am Gerona was absent. So, I had three hours of vacant period. I spent it upstairs where my second period class was being held. I posted my visual aids, I took notes, and text-conversed with Mj.

 

Mj and I talked about many things such as my plan of not going to Antipolo during my semestral break, Zj’s skin test, my weak lungs, Hanna and Zj’s development, etc. I was glad to know that Hanna was now eating well. She loves bread. She could also write her first name. While Zj loves to sing and dance. He knew how to keep trash, unlike his sister.

 

I think I haven’t had a clear report. However, my classmates said that they do not have questions because my report was just terminology. The definitions were enough.

 

After dinner, I went upstairs to sleep, but I sent first to Efear the song I wrote.

 

ONCE

 

 

I once hated your childish voice

 

The way you grin

 

The way you laugh

 

I didn't like you baggy pants

 

Couldn't believe you wore it

 

I irked you nice with you hippie style

 

I couldn't relate

 

I couldn't take it

 

You make me sad

 

When you once condemned your mother

 

I hated you so much for that.

 

These are the things I hated about you

 

The things you changed

 

I wished you never did

 

But the things I somewhat missed.

 

Now I love your voice

 

Wanna hear your laugh

 

Wanna hear you shout

 

Wanna hear you growl

 

Now I love the real you

 

Wanna see you smile

 

Wanna see you around

 

With your new style

 

I don't care if you wear skinny pants

 

As long as it's not a funny one

 

I don't care how you do your hair

 

As long as you're still decent-looking

 

I don't care if you're noisy

 

As long as you're here to stay.

 

 

Efear did not reply if he received it or not.

 

 

 

September 25, 2008

 

After sweeping, I stayed upstairs to read and write. I read my ‘Pahilis,’ an academic memoir of mine and I started planning to write its sequel, which is about my schooling this semester. I wrote a rough draft at one o’ clock in the afternoon.

 

Mj told me in her text message that she would get Zj’s skin test result tomorrow and she would call her uncles.

 

I prayed to Gid before I went to sleep. I asked Him to take away Zildjian’s weak lung disease.

 

 

 

September 26, 2008

 

I was so mad at 9 PM because Papay Benson said, “Hugakunoin magsuli.” It irked me so much. Thus, I immediately prepared a suli na langka, though I’m not fond of eating this. I still cooked because of my uncle’s prejudice.

 

Mj texted me at 12:27 pm. She said, “Elow! Msta? Thnk God at negative ung result. Ibig sbhin dw n d tlga sya n’expose s my TB. It means n wla k tlga nun. Ok k n. D [ kta nloadan kc kontakin q p T. Nck.”

 

I thanked God. He’s so kind. He answered my prayer.

 

I left for school early because I did not want to be occupied too much in sun-drying palay. I hope Papay Benson would not think that I’m insolent. I had helped him before I went to school.

 

From 2:30 to 6:30, I was vacant. First and second period classes had no teachers. I just spent it in the library and bonding with Tina, Florenel, Celine, and Glenn.

 

I said ‘Goodluck’ to Glenn in LET on Sunday.

 

At seven-thirty, I was supposed to go home, but I stayed in the library.

 

Later, Mj texted me. She said that she could not buy me a load because she could not contact her uncles. It saddened me.

 

 

 

September 27, 2008

 

I swept the yard right after I woke up. Later, we sun-dried 10 sacks of palay. And while doing so, I watched tv at Aileen’s house. It was 11 am when I quitted. I cooked our lunch.

 

At past two, we re-sacked the palay because the clouds were murky. It rained minutes later.

 

At four-thirty, Delon told me that Ate Quennie needed me. I went to Bulasu immediately. She gave me something to do—lettering and drawing tasks using the cartolina, Dasok was the one who cooked.

 

At six-thirty, Shaine-Efear’s half-sister, phoned on me. We just talked about trivial matters, but I was glad that she gave me importance.

 

At eight o’ clock, I was done with Ate Quennie’s project.

 

 

 

September 28, 2008

 

Today is Padi Glenn’s examination for LET. I asked God to provide him the right answers. I hope he passes the exam.

 

I swept in the buladan while having coffee.

 

At eight-thirty, I went to the market to buy fish.

 

I was supposed to join my classmates in going to Salve Jardin’s residence because today’s Managa-naga’s feast day, but I was not able to do so. I did not want to leave Delon alone in palay sun-drying.

 

At four-thirty, we were done re-sacking the palay. Later, I started cooking our dinner. This is my life.

 

At 5 pm, Mj sent this to me: “Sinundo ni Flor c Hnna. Pnsma q n rn kc my sulat c Mama u, e, ska my skit p q d q maasikaso. Msta?”

 

I replied, but she did not answer instantly.

 

Padi Glenn texted me at past 5:30 pm. “Kakulog sa ulo, Padi,” he said.

 

I told him that it’ s okay. I was sure he made it. He will tell us tomorrow about the questions that he encountered in the exam.

 

Mj and I text-conversed at 8 pm to 10 pm. She said “Nkiusp sya n pygan q c Hnna ipsama. Wag q n lng dw ipaalam sau… Sbi n Flor knusap dw ni Mama u c Gie abt nga s mga cnbi n Jno sau.”

 

Mama is the only one who could understand us and my situation. She wants Hanna in her presence because she wants Jano and Gie to give or pay her off on babysitting Love.

 

We also talked about our kids. Hanna has a fever. Zildjian has bowel movement problem. We were afraid that it was amoeba again.

 

 

 

September 29, 2008

 

It was minutes before seven when I had to get up and help Delon in loading the sacks of palay to be milled today.

 

At eight am, we were home.

 

At quarter to ten, I greeted Sheryl Guelas a happy birthday. We conversed later.

 

At past ten, I was directed by Ate Ningning to buy paints and other construction materials.

 

At twelve, Mj and I were texting about corrugated roofs. I told her that I canvassed the price of it. We decided to use yero instead of anahaw in our house in Polot. I hoped Tito Jay would send us immediately.

 

Efear requested from me to write him lyrics about ‘Crossroad.’ At 4 pm, in the library, I made it. It goes like this:

 

CROSSROAD

Every day seems to be a crossroad

 

From time to time, we're crossing ---

 

The main road of hodgepodge matters

 

The street of jumble occurrences

 

Every day seems to be a crossroad

 

You don't know what to do

 

It's so hard to opt where to go

 

But when you pick the best

 

It is surely your success

 

Beware of crossing the crossroad

 

You don't know what's waiting there for you

 

When you go back. it will happen again

 

Then you will be locked in the past

 

If you take a turn to the left

 

There might be a deadly ravine

 

You might deeply fall

 

If you go forward, who says you're safe?

 

You might hit the wall

 

It's hurt, it will make you bleed

 

If you make a right turn, I think it is the perfect path

 

But remember, it's not a fact

 

But when you choose the right track

 

Something is waiting there for you

 

Just don't procrastinate

 

Time is ticking. You can't afford to miss the train

 

If you stumble and fall. stand up and move again.

 

Because when you cross the mixed-up road

 

Have the right choice, you need precision.

 

 

I was sad when Efear did not regard or acknowledge it.

 

Later I started rough drafting a gospel song that Delon requested. I have done it at 7:30. It goes like this:

 

SONG OF WORSHIP

 

I will lift up my hands to the Lord

Thank Him always in manifold

For the unlimited breath

For taking away my wreath

For life is a blessing

For answered prayer and healing

I will exalt God to the highest

Praise His holy name to the fullest

Tell the world of His greatness

And his steadfastness

I will glorify Jesus

For He is faithful to us

I will sing a song of worship

To the Lord. To the Lord

 

I stayed in the library after my last period class, but I still had to dishwash when I got home.

 

 

 

September 30, 2008

 

It was raining when I got up. Thus, I was free to sweeping. I just watched tv after breakfast.

 

Mj texted me at past 7 am. I then asked her if she already fetched Hanna in Bautista, she did not yet due to her illness. But she will, she said.

 

I was free of any household chores today except of a few dishwashing ang boiling of cassava for merienda.

 

At 3;30, I was already in school. I listened to the radio on my cell phone while waiting for the time.

 

At five-thirty, Ate Che, Ate Salve, Tinax, and I bonded in a lugawan. We dined in there. Despite of heavy rain, we came up to that healthy idea. Good thing, I have budget for that.

 

At seven-ten, after Ma’am Golloso gave her instruction about remedial class on Saturday, we were dismissed. I was home at 7:30 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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