Back in my early 20s, I had a falling out with a former employer.

I was too young and restless to take on a grown-up responsibility and was still so blinded by the dream of being in the limelight. I wasn’t happy with the trajectory of my career and wanted to be paid more. So I quit my job in an impulse and that employer was very displeased with my unprofessionalism. He labelled me a “quitter” and spread the word within our network. We never spoke since then and would just bump into each other at parties, night outs and big events in Manila.

When I started having a hosting career in show business, I saw it as a passive aggressive revenge to prove to everyone who didn’t believe me, including him, wrong. It was my unspoken statement that screams “I ain’t no quitter!” I was just at the wrong job that I wasn’t feeling passionate about. It also affirmed my decision that resigning from that job was the right thing to do because I was meant for something way better. That was my big, fat ego talking.

Fast forward to last May of 2022 when I visited Manila, I heard from common friends that he was going through a critical health diagnosis. Fate reconnected us when I was invited to join a social media support group for those challenged in the health department and the moment we conversed again after decades of not talking, it was different. All the pride from our arrogant youth was gone. We were simply two people going through trying times, catching up with life and how we ended up where we are… fighting for our dear lives. We exchanged information about health and consistently stayed in touch while I was in the Philippines for added emotional support.

Before I left Manila, I sent him goodies that I know would benefit his health as he was admitted in the hospital. When he texted to thank me, I replied, “Anything to help you heal. I’m glad we are okay now.” By which, he replied with a smile and a heart emoticon. Then a week after that, I heard about his peaceful passing through his wife’s social media and I was deeply saddened. But at the same time, I know that he is no longer suffering and is finally free from all the pain and anguish caused by a disease so I felt a sense of relief.

I’m glad I was able to make amends with him. I’m grateful I was given the chance to make up for my horrible attitude in the past before it was too late. I’m thankful I did my part even if it was at the very last minute. Because the truth is, we don’t really know what tomorrow brings. So while we can, we must do what we have to do so that there will be no regrets because of words not spoken, actions not taken and amends not made.

Rest easy, Mr. K. I thank God that He allowed our paths to cross again before you went to the other side. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to right my wrong towards you. Enjoy your newfound peace and freedom. You will be missed and will never ever be forgotten.