Birthdays, et al.

Been meaning to blog about my birthday but couldn't find the proper "inspiration." Birthdays are supposed to be happy occassions. Don't get me wrong, it was a happy one spent with my family and friends. When I got home for the traditional birthday dinner, we had 3 birthday cakes (from TZ, TL and from my aunts), palabok (there should be something long served for long life), fried chicken (my nephews' and niece's request), ice cream, grilled fish (my request). Earlier that day, I received texts, phone calls and FB greetings from friends. Plus being greeted by my office mates with a song and dance which is always special. I thank God for this special day. I pray for more birthdays for me.

But what made me extra emotional that day was the sad news about Nikki's classmate at the Ateneo. When I got home for the birthday dinner, he told us about what happened at the school parking lot that day. A classmate of his had an accident and was rushed to the hospital and that there was even blood at the spot where it happened. He had no other info. We just hoped that the kid was okay. He or rather we had no idea of how serious it was.

It was only after dinner that my sister-in-law received a text from a co-parent requesting for prayers for the repose of the soul of Amiel Alcantara. I guess you have read everything about it in the papers. No need to write it here. When Nikki was told about what happened, he cried. All I could do was hug him tightly. It could have been anybody.

I went to the wake with my sister-in-law, Nikki and Regeena on the last night to offer our condolences (my sister-in-law already went to the wake for the Holy Mass sponsored by Nikki's class). The chapel was full. Around 8pm or 9pm another Mass was held. During the Holy Mass at the Chapel of the Holy Guardian Angel, the priest took note of the chapel's name and reminded us of the Prayer to our Guardian Angel. It's a prayer I have known since my grade school days at SPCP. I have not said this prayer for a long time, but it was so appropriate. To remind all of us:

Angel of God,
my guardian dear,
To whom God's love
commits me here,
Ever this day,
be at my side,
To light and guard,
Rule and guide.
Amen.

Borrowing from a blog I read, what happened to Amiel was an eye opener for all of us...of how short life can be.

For Amiel:
Give him eternal rest, O Lord, and may Your light shine upon him forever. Receive his soul and present him to God the Most High. May his soul rest in peace.
In Jesus' name. Amen.