IN an era where digital interactions often replace genuine human connections, the value of enduring friendships can never be overrated.
Six days ago, I started writing about the unique Filipino traditions that shaped our upbringing. Just this Sunday, I stumbled upon a Facebook post by Froilan discussing the same topic. Panic set in—how could I compete with Froilan, especially given his penchant for raindancing? Fortunately, a reunion with my former colleagues from All AsiaCapital occurred just days before my deadline, providing me with another story. What better way to start the year than with a tale of a 28-year friendship that began at the long table outside the President’s room at a local electric company?
I was the second-to-last to arrive and noticed we were all wearing prescription glasses. We met in our twenties. Now, let’s say our ages are best left unmentioned. Despite my desire to avoid political incorrectness, our age was evident, especially given the advanced ordering system of the restaurant that seemed beyond our years. Yet, some of us still embraced the millennial habit of photographing our food.
At this point, you might be wondering about the title. It stems from one of the many bloopers we reminisced about during our reunion.
Our Senior Vice-President asked one of our colleagues to verify a rumor about a former colleague’s passing. In haste, she called the bank but struggled to find the right words. “Good morning, this is Ms. X. I’m calling on behalf of Mr. Y. May I ask if Mr. A is…aah…is he dead?” Those of us who heard her couldn’t help but laugh. To this day, we don’t know the response from the other end, as even Ms. X couldn’t recall.
No Christmas reunion would be complete without gifts, but ours was no ordinary exchange. We played “Steal My Gift,” delighting in the chaos of stealing each other’s presents. We were so engrossed that we forgot we weren’t alone.
After dinner, the saga continued at a coffee shop across the street.
Reflecting on those days, we were young professionals in a city on the brink of a boom. Fridays and Saturdays were spent at the trendiest bars, adhering to our mantra, “Di pwede dili mag batin.” We worked hard all week and partied like there was no tomorrow on the weekends.
Now, we are in our golden years. Some have retired, one has grandchildren, while the rest of us are still working, driven by passion and dedication to our chosen careers.
Amidst the sands of time, our bond remains strong. We’ve supported each other through career changes, personal milestones, and life’s inevitable difficulties. The bond we’ve formed from that long table outside the President’s office has stood the test of time.
In a world that often prioritizes the new and the now, always remember the value of enduring friendship—the core of a fulfilling life. As we navigate the complexities of modern existence, let’s not forget to cherish the bonds that have shaped us and continue to enrich our lives.
