Always give it a shot

To some of us life immediately went back to normal yesterday, but to the lucky ones, it’s not starting until Monday due to the long holiday that allowed them to head to the hometowns and elsewhere for the holidays.

Many people have asked me if my job in the newspaper allows me to have a life. Yes, some think that since I have to work on holidays I don’t get to enjoy as much as the others.

Well, I do enjoy my job more than others enjoy theirs and for the rest of the year I come here knowing that I am doing something I love to do and the best part is that I even get paid for it. I don’t get paid as much as others who hold similar positions in the BPOs or the bigger companies do, but life’s not always just about the money. 

This March, I shall be celebrating my 20th year with The Freeman and this column is now 19 years old. 

If I were a car, I’ve put on so much mileage and probably won’t sell much in the second-hand market. Luckily I am not a car and each day brings something new to learn and experience, which probably has caused so much depreciation physically, but not mentally and emotionally.

This year, I wish all of you readers the strength to overcome obstacles and move forward despite the odds.

One of the best lessons I learned from my judo coach, Leonardo ‘Jojo’ M. Roa, Jr., was never to fear what the outcome would be when I was matched up against some of the best players of the country.

We were always just told to face our fears and if we score an upset that would be a major achievement, but if we don’t, at least we tried and never gave up even before the fight started.

* * *

The biggest golf story before 2008 ended was the reported mauling of a businessman and his 14-year-old son at the Valley Golf Club in Antipolo.

When I was coaxed into playing the game 13 and a half years ago, I met many good people from all walks of life, who showed me the essence of the sport that many refer to as the “gentleman’s game.”

The past many years also allowed me to meet many people who I’d avoid playing with again because they don’t make the game, which I took up for fun, enjoyable.

When I first came across the incident from Valley Golf from a forwarded email, I felt very angry that such thing can happen. Now that the case is in the hands of the authorities (I sure hope they’re in good hands), I can only hope for a speedy resolution so all parties can play through.

I’ve heard of many spats at the golf course and of players losing their cool for one reason or another. To those who can’t control it, just don’t try to hurt anyone or yourself when this happens.

* * *

MILESTONE: I received very sad news via text message yesterday morning about the death of Manny Lucido, who we fondly called Kabayan even if we’re no Batangueños.

Manny passed away at 6:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day due to heart failure, according to his kabayan and golfing buddy Lino Dagus. He was 54.

The remains of Manny are at the Funeraria Paz in Araneta, Quezon City and burial will be tomorrow in Tanauan, Batangas.

Please say a prayer for his soul.