Implausible turnaround

Wait a little while to welcome what you’re after

Give it the time to find its way to you

And soon as you no longer try, you’ll turn

and find it standing by your side

Come and get it, when you let it, it’ll come to you

Kenny Loggins, “Wait a Little While”

I didn’t expect to be around. After my sombre diagnosis of heart, lung and kidney failure last March, and the unavailability of heart transplants in the Philippines, I didn’t think I would even be here. My hopes for living were quite dim. But once again, God had other plans.

When I went back to work in late June just in time for the launch of dwAN 1206 AM, I was just glad to be in the loop. I am so grateful that The STAR also held this column for me, though I was gone for more than three months. I was just happy to be there. Twice a day, I still have to check my blood pressure. And what a relief it is to still have blood pressure, something that most people don’t even think about. Little did I know that more blessings would come, even as I prepare for cataract surgery tomorrow.

Three months ago, I received word that I would win an award from ContentAsia in Taiwan, my first international award after being nominated for an Asian TV Award 10 years ago. I couldn’t believe it, considering that my program, “Masters of the Game” on PTV, had been discontinued. It was distinctly satisfying to receive a prize among broadcast and film luminaries from all over the continent. My original intent to give back to all our sports heroes had, in turn, given back to me.

Last Friday came another unexpected honor. The 8th Outstanding Men and Women of the Philippines recognized this writer as an “Iconic Sports Enthusiast” at a glamorous proceeding at the Music Museum. What made it more deeply enjoyable was that I was only one of six winners from my dwAN family. We were all called onstage one after the other, proving that teamwork exists in an industry where egos rule. This is a rare culture set by our station manager, Marc Logan, which we adhere to down the line.

I’ve also been informed that Masters will be recognized by Anak TV this coming Friday. What makes this all the more satisfying is that it means that doing things the right way has a place for children in its audience. As a parent, I understand how challenging it is to filter information which may negatively influence our offspring.

In March, I was clinically dead. Now, I am just filled with gratitude that the world still spins with me in it. When you focus on honoring others, and stop longing for earthly things, the heavens bless you.