Dear Jepp,
My first-born my pride my joy. I think I had constantly reminded you of your great talents and abilities which earlier on in your life you unselfishly shared with us- your family and loved ones. You made your school proud, you awed a nation ( not to mention Tito Vic and Joey), and you made your parents, relatives and grandparents beam with joy and pride.
I always told you that you have it in you to succeed in this life. You just have to go back and find that child in you again when you gloriously shared your talents to everybody . You were fearless, determined, unrelenting, passionate, savvy, confident, creative and simply awesome.
But honestly I was worried how you would turn up as a grown-up. I know I am not the best Mom and I feared that I was not there for you during the times you needed me. I do not know whether you understood why Mommy had less time for you than your Dad’s. And why Dad has to take more part in taking care of your daily needs. In fact I envy your Dad that he has more time for you and wished I could have it the same way because I truly enjoy being with you and Enzo- especially now that you are young boys. But it is not too late for us, there are many more adventures to take, sights to see, people to meet and worlds to conquer for us. And I would like us to do that together as a family.
So son as you leave the enclave of La Salle and go out to the rough and tough tumble world of college life and eventually the real world, just remember as I had experienced before that it ain’t easy out there- hold on to yourself together, respect others and have self-respect as well, gather all the knowledge in and out of the classroom to shape yourself into a better man and fill yourself with the love of your family, your true friends and people that truly matter to you.
As shared by Lolo Mario the Coca Cola 100- year- old Man commercial ( and which Mom lives and advocates) - Simple lang ang payo ko "Hanapin mo kung ano ang magpapasaya sa'yo,Napakabilis ng panahon Huwag mong sasayangin sa mga walang makabuluhang bagay" at gaano mang kalayo ang marating wag mo kalimutan kung saan ka nanggaling. …… Pinanganak ka para maging maligaya ang mga kaibigan at pamilya mo ang magpapakita kung paano ito.
Celebrate life and victory, my son… Mommy and Daddy, the whole family and your true friends are here to cheer you on….
Love you with all our hearts,
Mommy ( speaking also for Daddy)
