“Whenever I feel sad, I stop being sad and be awesome instead ” – Lex de la Torre

The spirit of giving is a basic human attribute that can be exemplified anytime. However, during the Holiday season, people are inspired to be more kind and be more loving. Everyone deserves a happy christmas, the kids even more so.. and if they are having difficulties being joyous due to unfavorable circumstances, we can always share our time and resources to put smiles on their faces.


HAPI (Humanists Alliance Philippines, International) celebrated the Holidays with the kids of Purok7C – Ilaya St., along Alabang Riles. For good measure, we dressed as superheroes, together with the children. I was dressed as Iron Man, while HAPI Executive Director,Jennifer Gutierrez,dressed as Supergirl. These characters represent hope and heroism.. It was very appropriate as we wanted to send a message to the children to always hope for a better future.


It was daunting to organize this event as I’m sure our point person in Alabang, Jamie del Rosario, can attest. I also experienced some personal challenges. Close to the event, I had to balance work commitments, a badminton tournament and going around to collect donations. Going to the venue was also quite difficult. Lucky for me, I was accompanied by my friend, Eric Lumibao. When we reached Alabang, we got lost several times before finally locating the place. The road was very very narrow that one slip or one error from counterflowing trikes and cars could scratch one’s car. We located the place after asking around but there was no available space for parking. We had to leave and park very far from the place. We had to carry the heavy boxes, walk, ride a jeepney, then a trike and then walk some more before finally reaching the place. But it was worth it.


The kids were grateful and joyous at the prospect of receiving gifts.. and of course seeing Supergirl and Iron Man (ok.. not so much on Iron Man.. but they were definitely happy seeing Supergirl.. hehe).


HAPI prepared some snacks, a costume contest and the kids likewise gifted us with a musical performance.


At the end of the day, this was a Christmas well-spent. I am touched. And I am moved by the innocent smiles of the children. Their happiness was infectious. We might have given them some things. But they have gifted us with inspiration.. to continue our advocacy and do service to humanity.


I’ve always said that when you are at the bottom seemingly helpless.. that you can still do something.. and that is lift other people up.


I want to add that if you find yourself at the top.. you also have to do something.. and that is pull other people up.


And if you find yourself at the middle – you have to climb, and inspire other people to climb with you.


Whoever you are, you have the power to advance the human race, by simply helping other people. Love is a universal language. We should all learn how to speak it.


Thanks to Marissa, Jing, Yzak and other HAPI peeps and most importantly.. the Alabang Kids for making this a memorable day.

IronMan meets SuperGirl

with Eric Lumibao

                                                                  We are HAPI

                              
                                                             by : Lex de la Torre, MENSA Member and HAPI

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