A Perfect Day

Many well-meaning friends have told me, “Dodong, you have done more than enough in taking care of the legacy of your father, Don Vicente.” They are particularly referring to the long years I’ve devoted for the University of the Visayas. They also acknowledge “the support of your wife, Nena, and the inspiration of your mother Inday Pining.”

And they’re probably right. “It is time for you to take a breather, travel and enjoy what remains of your [life] journey.” I am already of such ripe age and, yes, I surely deserve to take things easy. But, no, not now… for I still have to get busy and see to it that all preparation is in place for the centennial celebration of the University, Papa Inting’s legacy, in 2019. At the same time, The Freeman – which was founded by my uncle, Atty. Paulino Gullas, and I revived in 1965 – is also celebrating its 100th year next year, making it Cebu’s longest-running newspaper.

I keep on reminding my wife Nena to carry through the religious involvements of Mama Pining. We’ve chosen to celebrate UV’s anniversary on Papa Inting’s birthday every January 12.  The University’s centennial will also be celebrated with its Satellite schools scattered all over the province as it is another brainchild of Papa Inting, with his purpose to bring education to the backyards of those who cannot afford to send their children to the city to study.

True, it would be good to go somewhere and relax. Only that I find it better to spend time instead in trying to engrave some footprints of kindness in the lives of our less fortunate brothers and sisters. I enjoy it just the same – and it’s better because others may benefit.

And I have my rewards, too. Early last week, I have had a day quite unlike my ordinary days.

That day started with my wife Nena telling me of the schedule of her church group, the Cofradia de la Virgen de Lourdes, to visit a place in San Fernando, where they had a tree-planting activity last year. She had to join, being the president of the group – the position held by Mama Pining for so many years when she was still alive.

It occurred to me that it was also a good time to visit the Shrine of our brother, Servant of the Lord, Teofilo Camomot, at the Daughters of St. Teresa Compound in Valladolid, Carcar. I thought it would be nice for Nena and me to make the trip together, since she was going thereabouts, anyway.

And so we went. At the Shrine, we attended the Holy Mass officiated by our good friend, Rev. Fr. Brian Brigoli. We also recited the Holy Rosary and prayed for the beatification of Bishop Camomot.

The whole experience was truly spiritually uplifting. Having said our prayers for healing, for intercession, for wisdom, for the granting of the righteous desires of our hearts, as well as guidance in dealing with our day-to-day challenges, I felt so relieved and refreshed. It was, for me, a perfect day!

The sense of calm from that day continues to comfort and reassure me… up to now.