By:  Raniel Madrona

“First time” experiences in people’s lives can never be forgotten, especially if they are good experiences. The first time to meet a significant person, the first time to be in a unique place, the first time to ride in a different kind of public transportation vehicle, and the first time to discover something new - these are just some of the ‘firsts’ in my life that I experienced all in a single day.

The moment my teacher told me that I would be meeting my sponsor soon, I became very excited because I’ve longed to meet her since I was in my first year of night high school. Days passed and I kept thinking about what would happen on that day, or what she looked like, or about her attitude towards people. As a matter of fact, I really couldn’t sleep because I was quite nervous as well as excited about the things that would happen.

Thursday, March 5, 2009, at about 3:30 in the afternoon was the start of my “day of firsts.”

I, accompanied by my mother, went to Alimall in Cubao, Quezon City to meet with Ms. Marie, ABC Foundation Coordinator and the person who will take us to the actual place where we will meet my sponsor. Even though we only stayed for a little while at the mall, it made me happy because it was my first time in Alimall (though I have been to many SMs).

After that we went to Farmer’s Plaza and rode in the MRT (Metro Rail Transit) going to Ayala Station in Makati City. That’s another first, because it was my first time to ride in the MRT where cards are flashed to enter the trains. Though we were like sardines in the train because it was so crowded inside with everyone standing, I was still wearing a smile on my face, ignoring how overloaded the train was.

After we had arrived at the Ayala Station, we rode a taxi going to Fort Bonifacio (The Fort), - the actual place where the real events will take place.

The moment we stepped out in The Fort, the first person we saw was Mr. Lewis Edwards, the founder of ABC Foundation, which helps many poor children go to school. He is a very kind-hearted man and he gave us a warm welcome when we arrived.

He first took us around to show us the beautiful sites at The Fort. He took us to many of the stores there and introduced us to many people. It was my first time to talk to Mr. Edwards for a long period of time and that made me very happy. I also discovered for the first time that all of the stores in the Fort had ABC Foundation Donation cans where people can help the foundation through their coins and extra money. I was touched to discover that many people are still willing to help despite the crisis and hardships of life.

After this, Sir Lewis brought us to E Gallerie where I will be able to meet my sponsor. As we were climbing the stairs, my hands, my feet, and my whole body shook from nervousness. Then we found out that Ms. Sarah was not there yet but will arrive soon. While waiting, we looked at the different paintings which looked unique and you can really see the harmony, the symmetry and the emotions in the artworks. We were also surprised when we found out that these paintings cost hundreds of thousands and even a million pesos! I couldn’t believe that those paintings cost as much as a house and lot! They were so expensive! I was really happy to see those paintings because it was also my first time in an art gallery. After I saw all of these I had a dream of becoming a skilled painter and artist one day.

After much looking and waiting, the person I had been longing to see finally arrived! Mrs. Sarah Evangelista was very beautiful!! I was astounded by her beauty and she looked stunning in the green dress she was wearing. I couldn’t believe that my sponsor was so gorgeous! All the things I prepared to say to her disappeared when I saw her and the only thing that came out of my mouth was “Hi! Nice to meet you ma’am! Thank you for everything! Salamat, salamat po!”

As Mr. Lewis Edwards said, I am very lucky because I’m one of the few who got to meet their sponsor personally. My heart was racing with joy as I saw her, and I whispered, “thank you God.” Then we also took some pictures together and talked for a while.

I began my day with a smile, and ended it with an inexplicable feeling of joy in my heart. I thank God for this wonderful experience. “First time” experiences never fade and I will treasure this one my whole life.