Rebirth

Yes, it had to be the feast of the Lord's Baptism (the last day of the Christmas season) for me to realize that my gifts were not yet open, my email unanswered, invitations unattended and friends neglected.

But, you see, my dear readers, I devoted the holidays to taking care of my dearest beloved Mamá. And believe me; it has given me so much joy and meaning to my life! Fortunes come and go, but you can't replace the love of a mother.

So, this year will be seeing a new “Sweet and Sour” column. High Society will always be our forte, but soul-searching will come to the fore. Also, the direction of all these “sosyalan” will be a focus point. Civic duties could occupy our minds as we renew our cycles of life. I'm getting tired of politicos being called “Honorable” all the time, when there isn't anything of that sort that goes out of their offices… Since when did this practice become standard procedure in the media? I remember Tito Junior Montelibano called as “Gov” but, that was it! And that seemed to be the highest title given to him until more praises poured in when he died. I could only think of politicians who won the elections as public servants and how those words would ring meaning and purpose to one's real role. It's when they die that the honors are due. Nowadays, “Honorable” goes down to the lowest of dishonorable characters in government, it seems.

Speaking of mothers, a lot of them are ballroom dancing and it has evolved from a social form of exercise to rather dubious and shady deals. We give our full support to our mothers having their share of happiness and good health. But, have you checked on your mothers' ballroom habits? Has it made her into a healthy and happy person? This column shall also deal with gigolos and gigolettes.

A lovely holiday dinner was given by media diva Luci Lizares in her ancestral residence honoring Cristina Gamboa and hubby Paul Anderson, fashion icon Jeanne Goulbourn of Cocoon, power-broker Anna Balcells, retired offshore banker Derrick Bage, Larry and Artie Lacson, Chicago-based Dr. Rudy Patiño, Eva Gorriceta, Charito Homes' Ed Alunan and Arkin Arcovilla, statuesque Liz Querubin and interior-designer Raymond Fuentes.

It was really a celebration of old friends and an introduction to healthy living advocated by nutritionist Dale Flores of Los Angeles ' Wellness Institute. The youthful Jeanne was a walking-talking testament to what we can do to change our lifestyle into a beautiful and lasting legacy!

MY PRAYER

May I progress in holiness, to the glory of Your Name, O Lord.*