Your Birthday

...missing you so much.

I fondly remember the time when you brought me to my first Crispa-Toyota basketball game at the Araneta. I was a high school freshman then. I was a a big fan of the Crispa team, and these two teams were the best in the league. Every game they had would fill the Dome to the rafters, even to its dead spot. And that is the magic that the games would bring into play.

After the game, you still treated me somewhere. It was our first father-son bonding. I mean, it was just you and me. Young as I was, I never realized what it was then. But it was etched in my heart forever.

With every opportunity I had, I would always recount that time we had together. Hinting that it was the best we had together.

It never happened again. Maybe because my other siblings also went to the City to study. We had company. But so glad am I that I had that chance with you.

I'd like you to know that my Valentine was quite special. I ate lunch with Mom and Jose Marie at Samland. We ordered the usual stuff we used to have. After lunch, I hurried to LSPU to attend my classes. I met Ma after the class and we ate at Shakey's.

I could still recall our last Valentine together. We had it in Max's. You, Mom and me were there. Ma followed us. Of course, with Jojo, Gina and the kids.

Valentine was never the same without you here. You will always be missed.

And today your birthday, it is rather incomplete; what with you in our conversations and memories and yet you were not around. You know the feeling...it is quite complicated to describe and yet it is so real.

You are at peace now. I believe that you keep us by your side whereever you are. Your company we miss, your presence, your voice, you.

Happy birthday. This is your first birthday with Him.

I love you, Dad.