Really, I’m  impressed with Bob’s and Chito’s way with words.  Their insights and thoughts are deep and piercing.  I enjoy reading them. You learn many things, especially from their poems.  I had read Bob’s Bicol tula, and they’re vintage Palanca. I’m sure Mrs. Intia is now beaming with pride, seeing two classy poets, products of her Literature class, galloping in cyberspace, with brilliance  and passion, with arthritis and hypertension, he he.

I need to be serious this time.  I would like to doff my hat to Bob and Dennis L.  My respect for them.  Their courage, honesty and candidness is worthy of admiration.  Many a reunion have been skipped because they think it’s only an occasion for harambugan.  In this context, Dennis is right.  I felt the same way, too.  I also felt success has eluded me.  For those who have reached far in their quest for fame and fortune, they would go on first notice, knowing they have something to show off to all and sundry.  Well, this may be so in initial reunions when our egos seem to get the better of us.  The just-concluded reunion was different.  It showed how far we have matured.   Rich or poor, manager or laborer, physically challenged or not, whatever stations and situations in life, it doesn’t matter.   "What matters most is that we loved at all”.  That says it all- a popular line from a song by Kenny Rankin which I will request Bob, or Bob-le, to croon when we meet again in 2014.  Well, we attended the reunion to enjoy each other’s company and empathize with others who are carrying burdens heavier than ours.  Many a suffering are not of our own making.  They are crosses given by God, - that we may purify others, change people and make this a better world.   Imagine just one life changed for the better, just one life turned hopeful from hopeless, just one life saved from miseries.  But there is not just one life.  Many lives have been touched by Dennis and Bob.   So, whatever failings you may have, my friends, makes no difference.  It’s the difference you made in other people’s lives. 

I may sound like Boy.  But he could deliver the message more emphatically and much clearer in his usual engaging talk, with matching wit and humor.

I admire Dennis D. for his candidness.   My wife commented, "this guy is so decent.”  I agree.  You gained our respect, and thar of Ms. Sabater.  Keep up your good work, Dennis.  Take good care of your health, amidst the stress of living in the City that never sleeps.

To Joker, I saw you in a heart-to-heart talk with Dennis D, and all Stags are happy, for nothing will stand the way of your friendship.

During high school, Chi and I had friendly competition for academic excellence.  In fairness, she is the better one because since elementary I was always second to her.  We are proud to be products of public school, having graduated from Albay Central School.  Her life is also a source of inspiration.

To Mulo, we look forward to the time when you’ll end your single-blessedness.  We will be one with you in celebration.  The Stags are behind you.  We will support you. 

I admire you Melo for going your way, searching for lost Stags, and herding them back to the den. 

Fr. Kiko, we are thankful for having you as our own whose physical presence we can count on in times of our spiritual need.  We are also here to support you in your mission.

After the storm comes the sun, Pitz.  See you in the next reunion, in sunny day.

To Malou, sorry for not having recognized you immediately.  I felt awkward because you were calling my name while I just stared at you blankly.  Really, everyone looked different now as when we were in high school.  But you know, Malou, you look  prim and poised.  Truly a Makati girl.  And you have a great husband in Jun.

To Tito, happy birthday, belated.  To Toots, my best wishes.  We look up to you as models of success.  Thank you for sharing your blessings.

To Jay and Caloy, we are excited to hear your full stories in the next reunion.  Richard will have to add more to what he shared.  Febs will surely bring the house down if she shared her experiences in Bicol.

Noel, we love to see your family in the next reunion.

Babette, you maintained you campus ‘figure’.  We want to know the secret. 

Butchie, I was amazed you could sing and dance.  Thanks for the entertainment.  We want see more of you in the next reunion. 

Thelma, you have a great family. Your son’s intermission number brought us to our younger years when we had full of energy.  Happy memories.  By the way, some Stags are thinking of starting a business.  Maybe some tips from you?

To Omeng,   I was awed when your daughter sang Blue Bayou.  The song was difficult to sing but your daughter did it beautifully.  We have a singing sensation in our midst.

To Ida, I just missed seeing you.  I was in Polangui when the group met Dennis at the airport.  I may be seeing you one of these days because I prefer taking PAL in coming to Legazpi because I have a discounted ticket (my two brothers being PAL employees).