SOME CYNICS and smart-alecks would condescendingly remark that those who lived past 60 are "bad weeds" or masamang damo as if living past 60 is a horrible sin.
Some benevolent ones say it is already a bonus from God. an added time to live in this world aiming for a chance to be still productive and yes, achieve something not only for himself but also for others.
Even Mabalacat City Mayor Crisostomo C. Garbo has kind words for senior citizens of his city and he acknowledges the contribution to community building of these citizens that is why he allots some funds for them to help them in their daily existence.
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Of course, I have to thank my brother Perry for his insatiable kindness and patience in handing out to me his financial assistance but after a jolly monologue of: eku sasawang sumaup, kabang mabie ku at nung atin mu rin.
I have to mention here Engr. Rey Liwanag who, during his stint at Angeles City Water District, unconditionally gave me modest amounts to tide me over.
The duo of Engrs. Bien Mateo and Junias Eusebio also count as benevolent friends who gave me some considerations at SM malls by way of meals.
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I have to include in my thoughts the brothers Rosan and Robert Paquia, the former for his solicitousness and the latter for his faithful readership of my columns. These two sons of my former teacher have been brought up well and so they are good citizens of their respective countries.
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For two scores now, I have devoted myself to reading and writing columns for Sun Star Pampanga and I keep a regimented schedule so that they would come out Mondays and Fridays, although some times they are missed out on schedule. For me, this is an excellent way to keep me mentally alert and not to lull in memory loss.
Writing in Sun Star Pampanga has been, and will continue to be, a passion and a good mental exercise and thus, no one should deprive me of this exercise, not even the frequent change in the position of editor-in-chief of the paper.
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Life goes on for all of us. As for me, I envision to live as long as God permits me to live. Till then, I shall strive to write better and longer, no matter what changes there would be at the Sun Star Pampanga office.
Thanks go to Ethel G. Infante and Ricky G. Francisco for their awareness of my needs: updated check releases and extra copies of Sun Star issues.
I hope to seeing my diamond year celebrations hassle-free and fulfilling!