Unity is Expensive, But It's Worth It

Yesterday was the birthday of my niece, Julienne Mae.

Last Sunday, I was toying an idea not to go to Padada, Davao del Sur (around 200 km away from Banaybanay) where Oyen (Julienne Mae's nickname) is with her grandma, mother Mayang and aunt Bebie because of distance and expense. But, my love for my niece won over those reasons. I went to Padada that same Sunday.

I left Banaybanay 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon and reached Padada almost 7:00. I could not imagine how happy Oyen was upon seeing us, Eva (my sister), Chum (Eva's Son) Joel (Eva's boyfriend) and me.

We just had our dinner together, few minutes of conversation, then I bade good bye. I arrived home at 3:00 am, Monday.

Why spend so much time in travel, for a few minutes of conversation? Why did I not just sent her money? I could have called her through phone. It was so impractical. But, why I did it? Did I miss Oyen? Maybe.

As a volunteer for unity, it was so spontaneous for me to go where the need for love is strong. Though I know we can love at a distance, I know presence has its miraculous effect. Oyen celebrates her debut only once in a lifetime. I didn't want to miss that occasion.

Moreover, love entails sacrifice. If I did not go, Oyen's birthday will still be celebrated. But, since I went, the celebration became meaning at least to me. And maybe it gave her the signal that her uncle loves her very much.

Oyen is the daughter of my late brother, Bobong.

Happy Birthday, Oyen. This blog is for you.