Simple Joys

Today, I feel humbled.. Humbled because I have met a very wonderful person who has shown me that life is beautiful no matter how simply you live..

Just about yesterday, I was incessantly whining about the fact that when I went to our kitchen, I did not find the usual stock of coffee that I drink every afternoon. I opened our refrigerator and I cannot find anything decent enough to munch. I went to my office and mumbled about the incessant ring of the phone, customers calling me non-stop. I don't have time for gym, I don't have that much time to enjoy to the fullest my hobby. I don't have time for vacation. And that brought a frown on my face. I found it hard to smile. And I thought, God! Give me a break! I am only 23 years old and this is what the world has given me!I am so tired!"

And God did give me a break. Last Sunday, I was off to a photography stroll by myself and I found Manang Condrada. She was sitting in a shade near the church and she was staring at me. So, i went over and talked to her a bit. She told me that it's very hot but she's happy because she sold 50 newspapers already for the day. With that amount, she can go home to her husband and kids with money to buy for dinner together with her family. Sunday, being the most profitable day for her, she said she's glad she can meet lots of people on days like this. Opon is her market as there are lesser competitors thus she can have more sales. Sun-Star Daily is sure lucky to have her as she is selling their newspapers way back when it costed P3.00 and now it's P15.00. Living somewhere in downtown Cebu City, she looks forward to going home everyday to be with her family. While we were talking, I noticed that she is always smiling and she believes that she's the "bearer of news", more of like an angel. I asked her if she ever gets tired of what she's doing.. And she said that she has kids who love her, a husband who is there for her, food everyday, a shelter to go home to and a workplace near her Creator.. "dong, I'm 64 years old and this is what the world has offered me... I'll never get tired!"

Thus the story of why I was struck with utmost embarassment and humility. I went home, looked at my home with different eyes--> with or without coffee and something to munch.. I remembered my family and my girlfriend and how supportive they are of me.. I welcomed the incessant calls with so much glee--> yes! i have a business and love all around me and I feel so blessed. I left Manang Condrada with a promise that I'll visit her again some time... However, I did not fail to capture and bring her soul to me through this picture. Thank you Manang Condrada.

Photo by: Lito C. Inso
Article by: Arlyn R. Abellana