Passing the salt that gives flavor to life

Let me share with you today some items from the book "Passing the Salt Around" a compilation of inspiring messages by Antonio Jose B. Elumir Jr. My way of passing that salt - the Biblical salt - that gives flavor to life. Here goes...

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Isn't it strange how a P100 bill seems like such a large amount when we donate it to church, but such a small amount when we go shopping?

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Isn't it strange how one hour seems too long when we're in church, and how short it seems when we're watching a good movie?

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Isn't it strange that we can't find a word to say when we're praying but we have no trouble thinking what to talk about with a friend?

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Isn't it strange how difficult and boring it is to read one chapter of the Bible, but how easy it is to read 100 pages of popular novel?

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Isn't it strange how everyone wants front-row tickets to concerts or games, but they do whatever possible to sit at the last row in church?

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Isn't it strange how difficult it is to learn a fact about God to share it with others, but how easy it is to learn, understand, extend and repeat a gossip?

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Yes, Mr. Elumir, very strange indeed, isn't it?

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I received the following letter (unexpurgated) from Nicolas C. Veloso of Banilad, Mandaue City. The opinions expressed are his.

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Dear Mr. Jabat:

Let us assume that the next few months will project new Tingting dela Serna popping up in areas of the 6th district. Will the former governor run for congress in 2007?

Five months ago, I would have said no, absolutely no. Not that I didn't believe him when he told us he definitely was not seeking elective position and wanted out. For all I know, Tingting still feels the same way and needs the congressional seat like he needs three holes in the head. Tingting is now doing the things he never wanted to do before in the district.

Question: If Tingting dela Serna runs, can he win? Again, this is guesswork. Chances are he will win if the chemistry of ward leaders and last but not least, former senator Sonny Osmeña will get along fine and nobody in the opposing group charges down from the mountains to the plains bearing thunder and lighting.

Question: Wouldn't Tingting dela Serna lose face if he goes back on his word that he won't run in 2007 elections? He would if he has Sir Galahad ranged against him into 2007 elections. Our assumption remains that he is the man to beat.

I must admit it's hard to understand Tingting dela Serna. Even for people who have known him for a long time, he escapes easy analysis. I, for one, firmly believe Tingting will change his mind and run in 2007 if he doesn't see any rabbits in the congressional seat.
NICOLAS C. VELOSO
Banilad, Mandaue City