DEATH, DYING AND LIFE

It seemed that previous month and this month has been pretty tough for VAI members and their families. They were really made busy praying for the eternal repose of the soul of a member or a member's relative who have gone ahead of them. A month ago, Dale and Boyet's sister Rachel has gone ahead of us. She was not short of courage in battling the big C.

Just this month we learned the sad news of the passing of Gino Gancia. He hails from Valenzuela, Bulacan, the seat of the Marulas SVS. But we have grown so accustomed to the idea and reality that dying is not just crying, but reliving of the fun life of the deposed. The account of Fr. Poloi can attest to that.

We went to see Gino (for the last time) last night. Entering their house was a dejavu: there Gino and I used to sneak for merienda after catechism classes at the nearby school during our Valenzuela days. We celebrated Mass for his eternal repose in the presence of his family and friends. Si Bilet ang naggitara, may balbas na ang mga kanta namin (he he he). Despite the short notice, a handful from our generation came, viz., Gerry Guillen, Chris Gallano, Ed Escarraga, Chito Sulit, Tony Santos, Bilet Joaquin, Bong Magkasi, Freddie Lim (Did I miss anyone?). Danny Aguillon did not make it due to some road problem; Eric Reyes had to attend to a patient at the last hour. After Mass, kwentuhan ng kwentuhan about the good old past; tawanan ng tawanan na parang hindi lamay ang pinuntahan! But I know Gino would like the same atmosphere --funny, easy and light. Requiescat in pace.

And just two nights ago, Fr. Rolly's mother Maria, 92 passed away also. And so we prayed more.

But of course, we were not short of celebration. Norman and Triccie just had their wedding anniversary. Noel just gone back from the hospital triumphantly shaking off a dreaded illness.

This is how life unfolds in reality. With humor and grit. We can only enjoy its fancy.