Regardless of religion, please take this time to remember one of the greatest people to ever touch our lives.

Thank you dear Pope, for making me feel proud I'm a Catholic.

I just had a haircut, and I got to admit, I’m enjoying the look. The style still sports the long-haired ensemble although my hairstylist, Jude Hipolito of Kaizen Salon had to trim the ends a bit more than usual because of my good-for-nothing splitends. He altered my usual layered preference by snipping my bangs and giving me that almost China-doll appeal. He then proceeded to layer the sides to give it a technical and at the same time, wistful appearance.

I love it. The hairstyle kind of reminded me of Sandy, the heroine in the first ever Koreanovela I decided to religiously watch, and I make sure to mention it to anyone who even remotely gives attention to my hair.

Them: So nice naman you haircut

me: Thanks, I look like Sandy noh?

Them: Sandy who?

Happy, my bouncy officemate, said that I look like a cheerleader and finds it a tad irritating that I sometimes deliberately swish my hair from side to side just so I could feel the cool ends grazing my nape.

But if there’s one effect this hairstyle has, it’s the power to make the wearer look years younger.

Need proof?

At a recent press conference I attended where the guest speaker is the feisty former DoH Secretary-turned Senator, Juan Flavier, I was seated near the back at the end of the row by the aisle. After his talk, the senator proceeded to walk along the aisle on his way out. The people beside me were nudging me by the ribs to make me stand aside so they could shake hands with the senator. So I thought, "why not shake his hand as well?" I actually thought it would be great since I really admire how down-to-earth he really is, and that he’s on top of my list among all the lawmakers combined.

When he got in front of me, it was my turn to nudge the handshake-hoggers and was able to stand directly in front of the senator.  It took me by surprise when he abruptly stopped mid-handshake, looked at me from head to foot and with the most bewildered expression, asked…  

Sen. Flavier: Hija, are you a reporter?

Me: Yes sir, it’s so nice to meet you

Sen: (without letting go of my hand) Really? Are you sure you’re even allowed to vote already?

Me: (finding his questions odd) Of course sir, I’m already 23.

Sen: (breaking into a wide smile and finally letting go of my hand) Is that so? Well good, good. Vote for me the next time I run.

And with that, the senator left me wondering about the curious conversation, but at the same time, making me feel a bit flattered deep inside.

***

Two days ago, I left the province where I was spending my vacation for an emergency staff meet. The driver wasn’t available which meant I had to take the provincial bus going to the city. I didn’t bring any work clothes with me so I just donned in simple jeans, shirt, cardigan and powder blue Chuck Taylors. I was traveling alone but it didn’t really worry me since I was conveniently near.

On the bus, I decided to read ‘The Dimsum of All Things" while waiting for the kunduktor (ticket person) to tell me how much my fare was. Just then, I heard the kunduktor say…

kunduktor: Ne, can I see your school i.d. please?

Me: (not sure he was talking to me) Huh?

Kunduktor: your school i.d, your student’s i.d.

Me: (dumbfounded) what for?

Kunduktor: (I think he was beginning to surmise that I was mentally ill) For the student’s fare discount of course

Me: (immediately catching on) Oh… uh… I left it at my dorm. I’m on my way there though…

Kunduktor: Oh ok, never mind. I’ll give you the discount anyway.

Me: gee… thanks mister.

I know, I know, my bad. I should have told him I’ve already graduated three years ago, and he really did seem like a nice person. So shoot me, but the opportunity for a discounted fare was just too tempting.

***

China doll bangs = looking young—twice proven/ certified.