reaching out

December is filled with drunken parties, gatherings, and family reunions. Our office is no different. The company spends millions for a one-night event. Most of the CEDs, however, don’t participate. It’s not that we’re anti-social, or that such an event is below us. The reason is that we’re really, really shy, and we’re totally crazy. We’re not comfortable getting drunk and letting loose with “other” people. We do have an image to protect, of course. We actually have this aura of having a superiority complex, better than the rest. But really, we don’t. So we usually have our own party. Two years ago, it was held at a bar that we frequent in BF Homes. It has a pool table, and we had the most amazing band that played there. It was awesome!

Some of the more intimate groups in our department also have another potluck party with close friends and/or their significant others. In addition to the gifts, we also have games, and it’s usually men versus women. Of course the men always win!

Last year though (December 21, 2007), instead of worrying what to wear and how to lose weight for the next office party, we (and by “we” I mean me, my wife, Mordsith, Pido, Kumareng Grace, Abel, and Cat) started something new, something unselfish. In lieu of another party for us, we decided to throw a Jollibee kiddie party for less fortunate kids. The idea isn’t new. We’ve actually thought about it since forever, but it never happened. So last year’s reach out was the first, and it won’t be the last. We printed some food stubs and gave it to the sons and daughters of street vendors. It was really fun! That’s my wife with the smiley. She’s too shy. Told you so!

This year’s party is in the planning. And we’re all excited. I’m sure it’s going to be as exciting as the last. This year, instead of treating yourself, why not give others the treat. Play host to people you don’t know. Be like a kid and share.