Milenyo and Uno

Last Thursday(Sept. 28), we were hit by typhoon Milenyo right at the heart of the city. Classes were suspended in all levels including offices and this proved to be a very good decision from PAGASA because most of the cause of death include: drowning, electricution, being hit by fallen debris such as billboards and posts. (More casualties if people reported for work). There were a lot of depressing scenes on the news the following day including a man who lost his wife, his children, his mother and father...and I remember him saying "hindi ko sila nakuhang iligtas, masyadong malakas ang alon". I wonder how he can live another day knowing his entire family was taken away by that typhoon. But he must never lose hope and faith in God. I pray that with God's help he would be able to see the brand new day with a renewed spirit. After all, God is still in control.
But inspite of all these events, I couldn't help but still thank God for protecting us that day. Our minor inconvenience was the brownout experienced for less than 8 hours (compared to those who until now have no electricity). Thank God!
On a lighter note, it was nice to spend that evening with the whole family and just going back to basics. No distractions from computers, TV and other electronic devices but just spending time with each other playing "uno" with just a lighted candle in our dining table.
It brought back memories when I was still a kid during those brownout nights, when my brother and I would find ways to still enjoy it. We would play boardgames, taguan, habulan, multo-multuhan o kaya batuhan ng natunaw na kandila. I also recall that Those were really FUN moments eventhough my mom would use the abaniko fan until we were able to sleep.
Now it was my turn to enjoy the moment with my son and husband. Games are still fun and it's amazing that at age 5, my son was able to play UNO, and oh boy did he play it well. I remember he only lost twice.
I thank God for the opportunity to spend time with my family with or without electricity and I pray that He will comfort those who no longer have their families with them.