Now I can write about it (because I think I'm a better writer than a speaker and because I've realized that tributes should be given to people while they're alive, not when they're dead).
There's not a lot of people who would use the words cool and awesome on their bosses, but I'm one of them. I must say I'm really blessed to get Obi Wan Kenobi, Yoda, Mr. Miyagi and Dino Tengco rolled into one!
He is many things to many people and I've seen him go out of his way to ensure the happiness of those he cares about. To me he is a giver of wisdom, knowledge and alcohol. He's primarily a boss who morphs into a brother figure, friend and life coach slash drinking buddy. His is the voice that challenges me to do better everytime, in everything (surprise parties included).
His 40th was an opportunity for me to give him something in return in my own little way. Not only because he asked for it, but also because he deserved it. When he first said he wanted a surprise party, I remember shrugging it off and thinking to myself: that's a tall order. Imagine having to pull-off a surprise event for a guy who organizes surprise events? It's like getting hired to be Michael Schumacher's family driver.
As his birthday drew closer, it became clearer to me that I was really going to have to do it for him. Not that I needed to be pushed to do so. I wanted to do it, too. I just wished I could execute it the way I envisioned it, but of course, we did have certain limitations. It's great that someone came forward to fund it (hehe) and sort of initiate it.
For all that he is and for all that he is not, I want to see him happy and I'm glad to have had the chance to do this for him. That night felt like what he probably feels everytime he does something for someone -- that genuine feeling of happiness in making someone feel appreciated and loved. He may have had another agenda in pushing for his own surprise party, but I guess we all had our own takeaways after everything's said and done. :)
Few can say that they have superiors who can put up with their quirks. I know I have to put up with his occasionally, but he really doesn't have to deal with mine... and yet he does. Honestly, it could be a bit hard to get to me. I'm not exactly easy to get close to, but if people get to me, they get me for life... but this does not pertain to an employment contract. If that whirlwind romance happens, I can't promise anything anymore. HAHAHA. Anyway, even if I don't agree with some of the choices that he makes, just like all of my friends, I will always have his back. That's not to say I'll turn a blind eye - he will also always have a piece of my mind whether he likes it or not (because I'm stubborn this way), but nonetheless, right or wrong, I'm on his side... because Robin will never leave Batman no matter what.
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