Remembering Kuya Alex

 If he was aware that he was a teacher, I cannot be certain because the tutelage that he ministered was unorthodox.  Absenting the rudiments of the 3 R's the lessons he imparted were nuanced often hidden from people who observe too many things at the same time thus missing the key point altogether.  Often reclusive in the background, I have collected many of his teachings just by observing the way he lives, his behaviors, and his living presence.

Kuya Alex never missed to smile, to laugh, and to enjoy the moment.  He loved people and he often joked around clothing his demeanor with gaiety and spontaneity.  He welcomed everyone and gifted them with specially made Filipino food - his own versions of Longganisa, Pancit Palabok, or Mackerel.  This was how I remembered him.  He was always generous of his time, cooking talents, and his joyful, positive personality.

I have never seen him angry or upset, depressed, indifferent, or sad and I am sure he had those moments but he chose not to burden others with these emotions.  Instead, his positivity and 'can do' attitude always takes the better place in him.  It is easy to forget the pressing problems of the day when you are around him because of his choice to look at the bright side of life.  This perspective is quite catching and my often morose, introspective nature marvels at his ease in injecting humor and life into any social occasion.

Kuya Alex knew how to live life to the fullest.   Despite multiple health issues, frequent hospitalizations, routine changes in caregivers, day to day challenges in managing the most basic tasks in a body that began to lose one function at a time, he remained optimistic, unwavering in his faith, that he would live to see his 50th wedding anniversary.

Seeing him that day for the last time fulfill his dream, he was a picture of contentment and unequaled happiness.  You will never know by his countenance that he was in pain or in distress.  He was embraced and surrounded by love from his family and friends.  That was enough for him.  Ever grateful for his blessings, he never complained about the cross in life he carried.  With humility and acceptance, he lived life gracefully without fear or remorse.

And with that, let me recite a passage from the Bible that speaks of how I believe Kuya Alex modeled the way to seize life, with all that it comes with, and to be our very best self, to our last living breath.

2 Timothy 4:  5-8

5But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 6For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7I fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.  8From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing.