El Pardo, Boljoon, Cebu (Continuation of previous issue) When we arrived in front of the hospital, we met Mel's mother and father. They were looking at Mel's body, already placed inside the vehicle bound for the funeral parlor, wrapped in black plastic. "Dead on arrival," according to the nurse who spoke to Mel's aunt. I could not understand what I felt. I invited Kloe to stop by a church before returning to school.
A Visit to the Church
"It feels lonely. I will never forget our last visit here in this church after our exam, when we were with Mel. After we cried in front of the altar. We had so much fun strolling around the plaza," I told Kloe, as tears slowly fell while she faced the Child Jesus placed at the altar, where the three of us used to sit during every visit.
"Mel and I had planned to surprise you after our Christmas party. The three of us were supposed to return to our 'same spot' because we had a joint gift for you: 'Merry Christmas and Advance Happy Birthday and Congratulations'—since this is our last year in high school and we will graduate soon," Kloe said.
My tears flowed even more because I had never received a gift from my classmates, especially from my close friends. Not that I am asking for something in return. I felt happy because I really do have true friends. Whether I have something to give them or not, they are still by my side. But mixed with worry, because Mel is gone. I questioned God why it had to be Mel, among all the people in the world. And why, in his kindness, he suffered such a great punishment. I also asked myself what the true message of every celebration, especially Christmas, really is.
A Changed Perspective
Before, for me, Christmas was about giving or receiving gifts through exchange gifts, Manito or Manita, or giving out 'Christmas Bundles of Joy.' But this year, my perspective on Christmas changed. It became a celebration where the word 'Christmas' reminds me of the past; forgiveness: of oneself and of my fellowmen, and loving like God the Father, because of His great love for humanity. He sent Jesus to be born in a simple manger, becoming our redeemer. And finally, acceptance that nothing else is greater than what is on high.
I learned that every Christmas, the greatest gift I can receive is not found under the Christmas tree, but what is in our hearts that can also inspire others, and to remain grateful for whatever we have.
"That is where everything began (looking at the Child Jesus in the Belen)," I said as I wiped my eyes filled with tears. After what happened, we did not notice that it was almost three in the afternoon.
"Let's go back to school, Yan, Ma'am Reyn is looking for us," Kloe said.
"Let's go," I replied while walking backwards away from the Child Jesus placed at the front of the altar. (END)
