Simple Joy

Pinipig Crunch and Ice Cream Sandwich from Manong Ice Cream's Magnolia Cart. Taho served in plastic cups. Pork barbecue bought by the stick. Fishballs served in the village sari sari store. These were a few of my favorite eats back when I was still growing up as a child in Philam Homes in Quezon City.

Back then we were free to roam the streets. At least within the confines of the village. On our bikes and for the lucky ones, on their Minitrails.

Life was simple. Kidnapping was not a thriving business yet so our parents did not have to worry about where we were at all times. They knew that between 4 and 6 in the afternoon during school days, and most of the day during summer, we were just around the village with our friends.

Our joys were simple. No PSPs or Wiis to distract us. No cable TV with hundreds of channels. No cell phones that kept us on a leash. Hide and seek and piko and chinese garter were common fare.We also played soccer or basketball. Or tennis or pelota, which was a big sport then.

And we made kwento. Not the online chat that youngsters today engage in. But face to face communication with friends, talking about anything and everything.

I miss my childhood. I miss the simplicity.