Countdown

How did you meet?

I’ve lost count how many times I had to deal with this question. And each moment I did, I always struggled for a quick answer.

“Hmm, he’s a close friend’s brother-in-law.” “Oh, he’s a church mate!”

I created a combination of facts to satisfy their curiosity. And when I got the same wrinkled brows, I shifted to next topic. But why can’t I just shoot it straight?

We have not met.

It was very recently that I went “public” about it and had the face to deal with the ensuing questions – or the taunting stare. I can’t blame them. I used to have the same prejudice. Until him.

He is in fact an Adventist and was introduced – if not pushed – by a roommate/ orgmate/ church mate/ collegemate. Third quarter last year when a stranger popped a “hi” over YM. The name looked foreign, but I fumed upon reading the surname. Rica!!!

For someone who idealized and romanticized about the manner of meeting the very first boyfriend, online encounter is outrageous and downright pathetic. That’s not me. It’s beyond my schema. I would not even date someone merely set up over here.

I ate my words. Still burping by the minute.

“Sorry, I can’t chat for long.” Yet everyday he did not stop dropping by just to greet – and apologize if he’s distracting. One reply led to another, then another, then another.

He carried good conversation. He’s full of ideas, strong opinions and thought-provoking statements. It wouldn’t be bad to have someone to test beliefs or argue with. I liked his brains.

Then he shared how he juggled work with studies. He at times excused himself to pick up his Mom in a late night 2-hour freeway drive. He mindlessly told of his financial struggles migrating from Panama to the US. I liked his character.

From chat, he began sending inspiring verses from the Bible. He shared his morning devotional. He admitted his recurring neglect of Christian duty, and was anxious whether or not his actions pleased God. I liked his faith.

In between all this, he occasionally asked if I have eaten. E-mailed just to check how I am. Stayed online until I left from work. I did my math. It was wee hour on that side of the planet!

Soon, he became part of my routine – a refreshing break after years of workaholism. My self-concept insisted I’m too driven and self-reliant to heed suggestions. Yet I noticed yielding to his advice and informing him of my plans and activities. First guy to crash that wall.

He did the same on many other things. He overhauled my standards. The height – he’s 5’10” –turn-off because it feels awkward (read: unromantic) beside tall guys. The age – he’s 2 years senior – older guys seemed like an uncle. The race – he’s Spanish – were once Spanish colony. The time – he lives 16 hours from the past – altered my body clock. The distance – he’s in the opposite side of the globe – long distance relationship (LDR) is a sadist.

Fast forward. The past nine months with him have been, thus far, my life’s most memorable and revealing. He being JUST a boyfriend will not survive this LDR given our packed schedule and time difference. He, at the same time, came to be the best friend and faith partner I longed to have! A twin from different parents.

I have lived – and silently searched – long enough in the country and have not found a gentleman as him. It’s never easy to explain but who can contend the peace, bliss and love I experience with him.

We have not met. But we will in 63 days.

Some gifts have just been revealed even before delivery.

21 Oct 09
10 pm
Rizza's question triggered this, conversation with tarra brought in several realizations, over salad dinner at KFC, Megamall