8 and Counting

My org batch recently celebrated its 8th batch birthday without the pomp that usually attends my batch's birthday celebration. In fact, it was a fairly quiet birthday celebration at my house, with only a few other select orgmates outside the batch in attendance. Despite the no-frills feel of the party, I'd like to think that it was one of the best, if not the best party we've ever had--evidenced by the fact that the Sweet Inspiration Mongolian buffet, the keg and 5 cases of beer that we ordered, including the several bottles of Johnnie Walker Black and Blue, were consumed by the time the last orgmate left at around 5am. Everyone had his fill of song and games, as there was a long line of songs in the karaoke system waiting to be sung by over-confident singer orgmates, followed closely by a long line of athlete-wannabes eagerly waiting to play the Nintendo Wii console. By the end, everyone was buzzed on his own accord, and not even the most junior orgmates could complain that there was any hint of irrational seniority that pervaded the air that night. It was truly a night to be enjoyed, for the spirit of true camaraderie and genuine kinship was, as it is true for all our batch birthday celebrations, present.

It was especially fun to see my org batchmates, 8 years older than the first time we met each other, goofing around and doing the same antics we did 8 years ago. Perhaps it was also through divine Providence that none of my org batchmates whom I so detest made an appearance that night, lest they ruin everyone's night altogether. What made the night more special was the presence of my org buddies, save for Doc Dasma (who was doing the rounds in the hospital) and the basketball player (who had already gone home to the province for the holidays). Ever so dependable, they helped me entertain the guests, and were the last to leave, helping me clean up the hundreds of bottles strewn all over the place. Also worthy of note, and very consistent, is this orgmate who, when he says that he will go (despite the fact that he couldn't stay up late and couldn't drink much), always finds time to go (and even stay til late) and drink even a couple of bottles (if only to humor me, probably). These are the orgmates I'd go the extra mile for--people who can depend on me because I know that I can depend on them, too. Irksome, however, was the fact that a couple of orgmates who confirmed their attendance did a no-show, and did not even bother with the simple courtesy of informing me that they wouldn't be following anymore, especially since I included them in the headcount for the food preparations. How very disappointing, to say the least. I hope they all curl up and die for all I care. I'll make a mental note never to agree to any favors they ask of me again. Another hitch was the car accident that my boiler room buddy got involved in. Thank God he's OK, although I couldn't help but feel a bit responsible for him figuring in the accident. Next time, I'd be sure to serve some hot soup or congee, or coffee to help my guests sober up before they leave for home.

It was also nice hanging out with the younger orgmates. It made me realize that they are more mature than most people in their age group, brought about by the training that the org gives us. Surely, PROPER guidance from the older orgamtes can help them do well in whatever things they want to do or accomplish for themselves. My org batch party also reminded me that old habits, good or bad, never die. On this matter, my org buddies would know what I'm talking about. It's best to leave it at that! Happy Holidays everyone!