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Three weeks ago

I thought there is nothing good reserved for me

I believed my whole existence was just a mess

I never knew there is a secret behind this

I thought I failed this time of my life

The doors of the church were wide open as I began to sing. The bride entered, her white ball gown—a long-sleeved lace wedding dress with a beaded brooch—gracing the church floor.

She was smiling so brightly, her eyes teary with happiness, trying hard to hold back the tears. With her parents on either side, she started to walk, and they carefully assisted their daughter as she made her way down the aisle.

The groom stood at the end of the aisle, eagerly awaiting her arrival. The guests, filled with emotion, were all smiles—some excited, some teary-eyed, and some already shedding tears. Many were capturing the once-in-a-lifetime experience of their loved ones through photographs.

My voice resonated through the church, creating a magical and surreal atmosphere. The venue was adorned with a variety of flowers, including some rare blooms I had the privilege to see that day, alongside more common flowers typically used for such events.

Roses, peonies, tulips, and a variety of other flowers filled the venue with their beauty. The entourage wore elegant mint green gowns, each with a unique upper cut, while their partners donned matching three-piece suits in the same shade. The maid of honor’s gown featured a different cut but the same color, while the best man’s attire matched hers in a coordinating three-piece suit.

This wedding was a sensation, capturing the town’s attention. The groom, a politician, has dedicated himself to aiding hundreds of street people, guiding them towards self-sufficiency. His bride, a famous actress, is equally admired for her kindness and her soft spot for orphaned children.

When they requested me to sing at their wedding, I had the perfect song in mind. Few are aware that they are not just best friends but childhood sweethearts, having grown up side by side. Their mothers were also best friends, a bond that was passed down to them.

I’m genuinely happy for them, and I share your hope that they’ll enjoy a long, happy life together. It’s admirable how they’ve stayed true to their feelings despite any external pressures. It’s natural to feel a twinge of envy, especially when you’re shouldering significant responsibilities. However, your path is unique, and your responsibilities, though challenging, are a testament to your strength and character.

Nang matapos ko ang huling kanta na inihanda ko para sa kasal na ito, ay umupo na ang lahat, I looked at my antique wrist watch, I hurriedly went to the wedding coordinator who’s sitting beside the other staff,

“Hi, Auntie Sol,” bati ko sa kaniya nang makita ko siya na nakaupo sa tabi ng ibang mga staff, “Uhm, I’m sorry, but I need to go, kailangan ko pa po tignan ang mga kapatid ko, and it’s time for my mom’s med.” Paliwanag ko sa kaniya.

She smiled and nod, “Oh, yes, yes. I’ll send the payment in your bank account, expect it in two to three days, darling.” She said, and grabbed her purse, nagulat ako nang bigyan niya ko ng ilang lilibuhin na bills, “Here. Get your mom and siblings something to eat while you’re on your way to the hospital.”

Hindi na ako nagpakipot at walang pagdadalawang isip na kinuha iyon.

“Thank you, tita!” I almost cried, sobrang kailangan ko talaga ng cash ngayon, at hindi ako papaya na may makaligtas na kahit magkano, makapal na kung makapal, kailangan ko to.

“No worries, Addi. I had a great time listening to your voice, my god. How I wish Kei had that voice too.” Parehas kaming tumawa ng mahina dahil hindi pa tapos ang ceremony, at ayaw naman naming makaabala sa kanilang lahat. “Oh, nag bilin pala si Kei, pag nakita raw kita, tawagan mo siya.” Tumango ako at ngumiti bago tuluyang nagpaalam sa kaniya, “Oh, Addi! One last thing,”

Tumigil ako sa paglalakad nang dahil don, “Yes, ta?”

Inabot niya sa akin ang isang calling card, “I uh, got it from one of my friend, that is not too much, pero baka makatulong,”

Tumango ako at ngumiti to muttered my thanks before I left. Nakatingin lang ako sa calling card.

Ravi Lincoln Spencer