Story By Rev. Fr. Keneth Pahamutang, OAR
Photo By Rheyxs Fernandez
What is the difference between being childish and child-like? Maybe, the difference lies in the action of the person. For me there is a struggle to be child-like, as Jesus commanded in our Gospel readings, in order for us to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. However, as I strive to be child-like, I ended up being childish.
If you happened to see a fat guy wearing a black polo, running and shouting along the corridors of Colegio de Sto. Tomas-Recoletos, then that guy would be me. Often, people are shocked when they’d see me playing and laughing with the students. I deduce people are now having doubts if I am a priest or a religious administrator of the school because I am too childish. Every day I would mingle with and annoy the students. It seemed that my day would not be complete if I didn’t spend time with them.
Contrary to present judgments, the students and I were not always annoying each other and laughing together and swapping jokes. Sometimes, we would get serious. Many of the young students, mostly seventh graders, would share about their lives, their problems, their issues—ranging from their quintessential puppy love, academic adjustments and even family issues. I could feel their pain. Yes, young as they were several aspects of life caused them pain. I could feel the heaviness of their problems that some of them pretend to be non-existent.
The students I often mingled with have a lot of questions about life. Frequently, I would be at a loss for answers. During the many occasions of our corridor bonding, all I could do was listen to them and take a share of their pains. Those sessions helped me to appreciate myself and my family because, to be honest, I have not experienced what some students experienced. Though it is the least I could feel for them, I couldn’t help but feel pity for them. And, I would I wish that I could do something more to help them. In hindsight, I could feel that perhaps walking with them as they go through teenage life and helping them carry their baggage were help enough for I too am struggling on my path.
Conrad Hall, a famous cinematographer, once said that “There is beauty in imperfection.” All of us have imperfections and we need to see the beauty behind each one rather than lament over the cracks and burns. Never did I expect that something good that could come out of my immaturity and childishness. My imperfection led me to a friendship with the students. I may have not told them but as much as I may have eased their heavy load by listening, they have also supported me by giving to me their trust. I became their confidante, listener, and friend.
