today, i did something good.

i was about to cross the street earlier, eager to get to the other side where there is a McDonald’s, and I was cursing those racing PUV’s and cars cos I am finding it hard to maybe squeeze myself in and walk across. Yes, illegally. Even if the light still says go. Because, anyway, I walk fast and I have always managed to get myself across major streets unscathed.

 There were people who took the risk and crossed the street, despite the frantic gesticulations of the traffic aide not to. I know I could do it, but for some reasons, the midday heat and the smoke and dust and noise is making me lose y focus. So finally, when the light turned red, I started walking, alone, for nobody was to cross the street at the exact moment that it was actually okay to do so. When I reached the other side, the traffic aide said to me, loud enough for a lot f people to hear “hija, sa dalawampung tumawid, ikaw lang ang sumunod sa batas!” (Hija, of the 20 who crossed the street you’re the only one who abided by the law.). I was surprised, not expecting the comment, and abut embarrassed, because I was actually thinking of violating the law myself. So I just smiled and saluted the traffic aide, he saluted back. Then I went inside McDonald’s feeling proud of myself.

 With a silent prayer that for each traffic aide who dutifully does his job, there is a law abiding citizen who would make their day.

 And I resolved that from this day on, I won’t be pasaway anymore in crossing the street.