Richest Man in the Cemetery?

WHEN WE DIE –I read somewhere that BILL GATES, of Microsoft, one of the richest men in the world told friends in one meeting: “When I die, I do not want to be the richest person in the cemetery!”

This is the reason why he is one of the most generous philanthropists in the world today. He is donating much of his riches and fortunes for the less fortunate.

LEVELLER —There are many lessons to learn from his words. For one, death is the great “leveller”. Everyone who dies — rich or poor, famous or unknown – is equal. Two, those worldly possessions and wealth will not mean anything anymore. One can’t bring it all to the grave.

PAYBACK TIME –To me, BILL GATES is teaching us to share our blessings while we still can—when we are still alive. All of us have our own way of helping others. Every minute left in our lives must be payback time. Unless you want to be the richest person in the cemetery!

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PEACE —After I learned that an important Annex in the peace agreement with the MILF was signed recently, I sent a message to both panel chairs, MIRIAM “Iye” CORONEL  and MOHAQHER IQBAL : “Congrats. I know how difficult it is but you make it happen”.

“Iye” replied: “Thanks, Jess. Keep the faith with us”.

To everyone, I also say: “Let’s all keep the faith. Until a final peace agreement is forged. And implemented”

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GENSAN MAYOR — I motored to General Santos City during the week and had the occasion to call on new City Mayor RONNEL RIVERA. He is starting to re-invent local governance in an unconventional way.   First, he got himself a new set of young technocrats, coming from the private sector. Then he is balancing it with the experienced touch of the career ones.  Let’s watch how this will change the governance landscape in the “Tuna Capital” of the world.  For one, there is renewed vigor and enthusiasm in the business sector.

In Davao del Sur, newly elected GOV CLAUDE BAUTISTA is also chartering a new course for the province. Let’s all watch.

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GOING THE ROUNDS  — I am starting to go the rounds and meet up with our media friends, especially in the print media, so we get the feel of what we need to do in the Philippine Press Institute. In the process, I reconnect with old friends who have stayed the course in the profession.  I started my journalist work in 1967 right after college graduation. That’s almost 50 years since. Long time, I know.