I don't exactly remember when this picture was taken although I must have been four or five years old then. Judging on our clothes it must have been around December or January since my dad was wearing a turtle neck sweater and a jacket while I was wearing a sweatshirt with the word "Rabbit" written on it. It must have been cool the day when this was taken since I don't ever remember Manila being cold at all. It's hard to believe how time flies. I have since reached middle age while my dad is now ailing.

Often times, people pick up their phones and place calls to their dads on this special day. How I wish I could do the same and talk to my dad as if it were that simple. We are literally worlds apart. He's in Manila while I am in San Francisco. Anyway, I do not just think about my dad on this day. Lately, I have really been thinking about him everyday. In fact, I dreamt about him three times all in one early morning two days ago.

Just like many parents and children, my dad and I had our share of misunderstandings. But, we did patch things up, and we ended up having a close relationship to this day.

I am very blessed to have him for a dad. Not once did he shirk his responsibilities towards his family. We were always taken cared for. He sent me to the best schools, supported me 100% in my desire to study in Spain and he made sure my dream to see the world came true. He gave me a life many can only dream of.

It was he who always advocated for strength, humility, kindness, perseverance, and hard work. It was from him I learned one belief I go by in life "If you can be pleasant, why not be pleasant?"

I am very lucky indeed to have you, Daddy. I love you very, very much. Thank you for everything.