Mirror

Mirror

Once in a while, I look at myself in front of the
mirror. The reflection that welcomes my naked eyes bothers me at times. Who is
this person I’m looking at? Who is he?

My
story started fifty-nine years ago, it was the 19^th of July, where
Pete was first introduced to the so-called life.

He
was born Christian – his father was a devout of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo Church
and his mother was an Iglesia Ni Cristo follower. Though that was a strong
foundation for his religious side, still, he seldom goes to church. Like his
father, he is always hot tempered. Small wrong things make him agitated easily.
He always bears a shout-like tone in speaking, whether mad or not. Patience is
not actually a virtue for him. And worse of them all, he’s not showy of the way
he really feels – you may call him numb, still he doesn’t care.

On
the contrary…

In
his early years, he was always considered a bright student. He was not only
knowledgeable in so many ways; he was also smart – wise. Though he only
finished his high school education, still, that fact did not hinder him from
succeeding in his career path in life. At present, he now works as a Security
Officer at the Supreme Court in Manila.
He has earned many recognitions both from his work and his friends –
recognitions both in papers and in words. He is a loving son, brother, husband,
and father. And best of them all, he’s a true person – a man of words and
deeds.

I
admit, in some ways I abhor him for being not showy of his feelings. He knows
how to express his thoughts – such thoughts which are oftentimes hurtful – but
never his true, softer side.

But
I do understand him, I really do. He’s a man, and being a man entails a lot of
responsibilities. For being a man is an epitome of toughness, strength. And in
that case, he passed on my standards. Though he doesn’t support you in the most
literal way, he pushes you in ways which he knows best to keep his image and to
drive you as well.

As a
matter of fact, I see myself in him. If I remember it right, I also seldom go
to church, I’m a bit hot tempered at times, I get irritated quickly, I have a
loud normal and abnormal voice, I’m not that patient, and I’m not showy. Like
him, I am not a dull student, I have big dreams and plans in the future, I am
recognized positively through my humble works and words, I am a loving son, and
I am true to every words my mouth utters and deeds my body does.

I dislike
some of his ways, but I understand him, and I see myself in him – for Pete is
my father, my ever loved dad.

Once
in a while, I look at myself in front of the mirror. The reflection that
welcomes my naked eyes holds true to the blood that flows in my veins. I am
myself, a reflection of my father.