The best gift we give in our lifetime is ourselves. These were the words of the priest during one of his sermons in the recently concluded "simbang gabi" - a 9-morning stretch Filipino tradition during the Christmas season.
I have always wanted to do something worthwhile; something out of the usual, extraordinary to be precise. With goodies at hand, I went along with a good friend to jail. Yes, you've read it right, jail - prison, correctional place or what-have-yous. I was filled with excitement as finally it's a step closer to what I wanted. Heading there, questions flooded my mind...how are they inside, how they all look like, how they feel all through these years confined in a cell? How would they react with me being there, will I shed some happiness on them, will I be able to serve the purpose of my presence?
The cab halted and there we were; as we stepped inside, the process of interrogation started. Sadness crept when the guard told us that only one bundle of goodies can get through; thankfully, the other guard that my friend got acquainted with as she frequents the jail, told his colleague to let us through with the things we're bringing with no further inquiries. Happy-me, happy-us!
I felt giddy as we further go inside; we were almost at the gate to the prison itself when another guard called us. A series of who, what, why and after being answered politely he declared that only one of us can get through. :( Yes, I wore the longest face upon hearing his objection. On the bright side, all our bundles of joy were allowed to be taken inside. My friend and I looked at each other deciding on who should go in; I told her to go and I'll wait for her.
Whilst waiting I was able to compare Sharjah jail to the ones back home that were broadcasted in the news where some prisoners were treated as VIPs and people can just get in without going through the process we just went through. Some can even sleep inside, wonder why security isn't so much of an issue and why rules can be bent with just a small monetary bribe. My comparison only lasted for 10 minutes; yes folks, my friend was back that quick. Turned out, a visitor cannot linger for an hour or so; you must only hand over your goodies and if you get lucky you can give a hug or a kiss to the prisoner.
I bombarded my friend with questions of which she gave satisfying responses. This day's activity made me realize that these people only need a minute or two of our time shorter than the time we spent in parties. I encourage you to take some time and visit not only the prisoners but the sick as well; despite what happened I will still go back, next time with a master plan so my friend and I can both get in.
Hope you all had a happy Christmas.
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