Public Praise

Got to see Richard in action today.

For eight long years, he was in the academe.

My visits to his workplace were mostly campus related events and yes I have seen him in his best element. He was the “Sir Richard” or “Ser Retsard” ready for service. But today was different. He looked different. Sir Richard typically wore a polo barong. But today he was in multi-colored scrubs and he wore a huge ID. I’ve never been to his exact work post until today’s ER visit for my mother who’s a CKD patient. In a public hospital’s crowded ER, almost everyone is reduced to either patient or watcher. None of our earthly “labels” matter. Everybody’s got to take care of somebody. Pressure is constant. Stress is in the air. But today, Richard was my calm amidst the chaos. He led the way and he was quick. Lightning quick. With his help, we got to where we were supposed to be and I could not be more grateful.

I know I could thank him privately but right here, right now, I just want to honour him by making my praise public.

Thank you...

For refusing to listen to me when I convinced you not to quit your 8am-5pm job for an 11pm-7am. You listened to God and stood by your decision. A true leader and man of the house. We now reap the fruits of that one life-changing decision.

For being the first to support the decision to move Mama from Butuan to Davao. Our schedule has never been the same but not a single complain from you.

For volunteering ever so stubbornly to take trips to every government agency we could think of that supports dialysis patients in order to secure the precious billing assurance. Tiresome AM, PM or Night shifts didn’t stop you from being dependable.

For being tough, responsible and so other-centered. You’re off to another night shift yet you selflessly gave up precious minutes of sleep before the clock says TIME IN. Not to mention that you’re also recovering from an upset stomach.

For genuinely caring for Mama and my family.

When I look at you now, I know I made the right decision to marry you. And if I had to make the choice again, I would choose you ten million times over.

You may not be a father yet, but you have the makings of one.

And even if you don’t become one, I’ll still be the proudest because you are my man!