During my college graduation, as I went down the stage after getting my faux diploma from Fr. Ben (who had delightfully soft hands), BobbyGuev, who sat on the front row, bended over to greet me congratulations. He extended his right hand and as I shook it, he said “Congratulations, Dana! I’m so glad to see you up there! Good luck!” with a smile that looked so genuinely happy that my heart had no choice but to melt.
After everything was over, I chanced upon seeing him again, of course hounded by students and friends who loved him, asking for pictures with him, hugging him and saying their usual thank-you’s. To my surprise, I found myself dragging Francis and my dad towards his direction saying, “Doon, doon!” and yelling “Sir! Picture!” :)) BobbyGuev, who was surprised to see me suddenly appear beside him said, “Oh, Dana! Sure!” After three shots, I offered a hug which he accepted (*insert transcendental kilig here*). I said, “Sir, thank you. Thank you.” to which he responded, “good luck, Dana! Alam mo kung saan kami pupuntahan.”
(*again, insert transcendental kilig here*)
(I would’ve cropped the guy on the right but that would be an act of wanting to perpetuate the already unjust structures of society.)
