AC velada 2024 Together again, together always

(Conclusion)

- JOANNE RAE M. RAMIREZ

For many, no matter how young or old, attending class reunions is a gift—simply because you are able to attend it. Presence is a present. Some may be willing to attend, but due to certain circumstances, cannot. Some have gone ahead to a better place. That's why the annual velada of the Assumption Convent, which took place a week ago, is like honey that attracts alumnae near and far like honey does bees.

My batch mates, the Sapphires, practiced for at least three months, with three-hour, bi-weekly rehearsals, for their six-minute performance during the velada. A time-honored tradition, the velada is the culmination of what Assumption alumnae call their "Old Girls' Day," or annual homecoming, during which they wear their red-plaid high school uniform. My classmate Teresina Liboro-Liljeberg, who flew all the way from Denmark, wore her original high school uniform!

"Merely being physically present is already a great blessing from God! Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to be together again," said my batch mate Tina Cruz Mateo.

For their golden jubilee, Batch '74 mounted a performance with 59 performers (including balikbayans)! Watching them sing "Handog" onstage brought a catch to my throat.

Tatanda at lilipas din kami
Ngunit mayroong awiting
Iiwanan sa inyong alaala
Dahil minsan tayo'y nagkasama...

These golden jubilarians didn't look at all like they were riding into the golden sunset, and yet they struck a lodestone there.