MY BROTHER-IN-LAW & OTHER STORIES
By Jhonny Novera

Father Blessing

I can't recall the name of the priest who officiated in the mass at Rockwell in Makati that we attended on New Year's eve, but he gave a formula for happiness that is good to remember: " If you want to be happy in life ," he said, " be a blessing to others ." So I would just refer to him as Father Blessing.

Father Blessing related the story when he said mass at the anniversary of a government bureau known for its corruption. Attended by its top officials and other guests, one could see expensive suits, barong tagalog or ternos and jewelry worn by the officials or their spouses during the celebration.

First, he congratulated them for their anniversary and, second, for their obvious success in life! Because they are so blessed by working in the bureau, he exhorted them to become a blessing to others too. The collection for that mass was one of the biggest he has ever received, especially because he announced that the proceeds will be given to aid the seminary.

This was followed by the story of a factory he was asked to bless. Because the owner always ask the Lord to bless his workers, without even asking any for herself, the factory continues to expand.

Now when the time came for sharing peace with one another in the mass, he said that we should not be stingy with our love for one another. Say "I love you," to greet those who are close to you . Aside from my loved ones beside me, I whispered exactly that to the lady at the next row in front who was carrying her baby. I thought I took the advice of Father Blessing too literally, but she sweetly smiled back at me!

Finally, when the mass ended, before the final blessing, Fr. Blessing showed us a copy of the gospel guide for 365 days from which he read the gospel in the mass. He said that for those who wish to share their blessings with poor seminarians they can buy the book, copies of which are available at the back near the entrance, because the proceeds will go to them.

Almost the whole congregation happily got a copy each after the mass, some even three!

"Always share the blessings that you have with others. You will discover real happiness if you do." That was Fr. Blessing's parting advice.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all those who read our column, "My Brother-in-Law & Other Stories" in this paper . We love you all!