Conversations With My Sons

Tonight, we were watching the evening news on tv -- my sons and I. A not too usual happening since they usually come in late from work, from a night out, from a badminton or basketball game, or from whatever it is young adults are usually pre-occupied with.

As most of you know, commercial breaks on tv nowadays are outnumbered by political propaganda. On an given night, the viewer is treated or jaded (take your pick) by the beaming faces and shining promises of Gilbert (Gibo) Teodoro, Manny Villar, Noynoy Aquino, and Eddie Villanueva, not to mention those of vice presidential hopefuls and senatorables. Personally, I have to give it to these candidates, though -- many of these ads are imaginatively conceptualized and professionally, with some even subtly executed, making them visual and cerebral treats. But perhaps compliments are due the cooks? I mean, you know -- the media specialists that created them.

As my sons and I watched one campaign ad after another, I thought it was a fine opportunity to take a quick survey of my children's political preferences and views. I knew from previous conversations we had that they had not really made definitive choices, in the same way that I have not. But we all agreed happily the pickings were not as slim as in previous elections. For the first time in a long time, it seems, it is no longer a question of choosing the lesser evil. There were enough good men running.

To begin the ball rolling, I said: "You know, I sorta like Gibo. He seems to have what it takes."

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