They say love comes looking for you at the oddest time, at any age
IT WAS heartwarming to read the many wishes, thoughts and messages that appeared on the Internet to mark Thanksgiving Day. Everyone was in such a thankful mood.
One message hit home. It was addressed to God. It said: “God thank you for giving me so much and most especially, thank you for not giving me what I deserve.”
With hands lifted high, let me shout a resounding “Amen”!
Date book
Suddenly December is here, with its hectic holiday schedule. It will be busy. First is our year-ender class birthday/Christmas lunch. We have games and prizes, exchange gifts and eat too much.
For sure we will discuss plans for our umpteenth jubilee in February. The organizers want to start rehearsals now. But by show time, will we still remember our lyrics? Someone scrapped the dance. Pity, some of us were eager to prove that we still have a wiggle or two left.
I spoke to the lady in charge of program and, bless her heart, she wanted us to get on and off stage in three minutes. I tried not to laugh. Hello, it takes some of us that long to get out of a chair. Seriously, I complain a lot, but we will love every minute we are given in the spotlight.
Jammin’ for help, thanking the world
Mark Dec. 11 in bold red on your calendars, folks. Huge names are on the marquee for this ultimate Supertyphoon “Yolanda” fundraiser.
“Jammin’ for Help and Thanking the World” takes center stage at the Rockwell Tent on that night at 8. The event also says “thank you” to the governments of nations all over the world who opened their hearts, sent their people and reached out over and above anybody’s expectations to help us get back up on our feet.
Big stars have signed up to do the show. Allow me to namedrop.
The super-talented maestro Gerard Salonga is on board with the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra.
World-class singer and Broadway star Lea Salonga was among the first to say: “Count me in.”
Cecile Licad, world famous concert pianist, came all the way from the Big Apple, just to do “Jammin.’”
Another name-droppable is known as the Concert King. He leaves the next day for shows in Las Vegas, several Yolanda benefits in Los Angeles, and a Christmas show in Atlantic City. He pulled out all stops just to make it to “Jammin.’” How do I know all this? I live with the guy.
Child singing sensation Fitri and our latest “crush ng bayan” Ryan Gallagher have also volunteered.
Seats are limited! So hurry!
Looks like love
Just heard! One of the loveliest ladies I know is altar-bound in June. Boots Anson Roa and lawyer King Rodrigo are engaged. What a lucky man! Who said that Cupid had retired?
Of course, when something like this happens, those of us who are single (by choice and otherwise) become fair game. Questions and wisecracks never cease.
Incidentally, I find it difficult to fill out forms. What should I write in the blank for civil status? The choices are: single, married, divorced, widow. Can I say all of the above?
Anyway, let me ask: Can love have a second (or third) chance with you? Now older and wiser, would you take another crack at it?
Are many of you out there looking, secretly hoping to find someone, quietly wondering if you still have it in you to handle another relationship?
I asked my friends.
One was quite candid. “No way,” she answered. “Anything out there today is way younger than I am. I refuse to be the oldest cougar on the planet. Men older than me are either dead or dying. If I want warmth, I can get a comforter. Conversation? I can chat on Facebook. One click and it shuts up. If I want company, I can get a dog.” Oh dear! No romance left in the woman.
Some said “yes” without hesitation. One college buddy was brutally frank: “This time around he has to be loaded. No more love on a shoestring budget. Been there. Done that.” Experience is the best teacher?
A friend of mine who took a second chance at marriage told friends who asked her why. “I hope you never get as lonely.” It didn’t last. Could it be that loneliness or the fear of being alone are the wrong reasons for taking another plunge?
For some, men and women alike, love (like hope) springs eternal. They will look for it until it happens or until they get it right. It does not seem to matter how many times their heart is broken.
Where do I stand in all of this? I was hoping you wouldn’t ask.
I believe that for everything there’s a season. You don’t plan it. They say love comes looking for you at the oddest time, at any age.
And when it does, suddenly: “You sigh the song begins, you speak and I hear violins. How else can I explain those rainbows when there is no rain? It’s magic!” Remember the song?
A word of caution: This may be the time to stop and think, reflect and carefully consider whether you will stay or run away.
As for me, I surround myself with the people I love and who love me. These are my treasures, all the magic I will ever need.
And in my solitude I look back and remember, and my memories fill my darkest days with rainbows and keep me safe and warm at night. It cannot get any better than that!
