A Wedding and a Birthday Party

Three weeks ago, I attended a millennial wedding, the 2nd one in two decades. I experienced how it was to witness a Catholic ceremony and a reception managed by an events’ group. So different from how generations X conduct theirs.

The ceremony before, during, and after is thoroughly documented. The reception is organized around a program, with food and beverages given as needed. A module was put up for the bride and groom before concluding with a same-day video editing demonstration.

A week ago, I attended a birthday party at a restaurant bar with a stage for live musical performances. This one, like the wedding, appeared to have an event organizer. Confirmation of an invitation was requested weeks ago.

At the gate, guests were asked to show their invitation and confirmation. Seating was allotted. The highlight was a mini concert by a well-known vocalist campaigning for no cover songs, just original live singing, accompanied by two singers and five musicians. Every now and again, the solo performer includes information about the celebrant, adding a personal and intimate touch.

Food and beverages were served during the performance. The entire party was thoroughly captured by a photographer and videographer. Android phones were in a tripod to cover activities on and off stage.

Following the concert, the stage was open for any guests to sing till early morning.

Reflecting on the current wedding and birthday festivities I attended, I can't help but be amazed at how much has changed since the 1970s and 1980s. Back then, our celebrations were basic, generally hosted in our homes or offices, with homemade décor and family-prepared food. Guests bring in bottles of hard liquor for consumption. Today's events combine creativity, technology, and professional touches to create experiences that are both personal and grand.

The satisfaction was undoubtedly different.

What struck me most was the attention to detail and the desire to make each celebration unique. From personalized vows and custom playlists to interactive photo booths and gourmet catering, every element was thoughtfully chosen to reflect the personalities and stories of those being celebrated. These modern celebrations honor our traditions while also embracing new ways of bringing people together.

The infrastructure set up was provided for the comfort and pleasure of the guests taking away the burden of preparation from the celebrants. The center remains to be the interaction and socialization of the guests; while dining, memories were recalled, anecdotes shared, and significance of the activity highlighted fully credited to the hosts.

As I watched the joy and connection among the guests, I realized that while the methods and styles of celebration have evolved, the heart of these events remains the same. It's still about coming together, sharing joy, and creating memories with loved ones.

Witnessing this blend of old and new filled me with a sense of nostalgia and excitement for the future, wondering how we will continue to innovate and celebrate life's special moments in even more meaningful ways.

Both events ended with thanks with a twist. Thanking the guests for witnessing the moments with them, acknowledgement were also given to the sponsors and suppliers 

Best wishes to the couple. Happy birthday to the celebrants. These greetings have not changed.

Epileptic Seizure

 What one needs to do when in a company of someone having an epileptic seizure

During a celebration dinner at a grade school campus, I struck up an impromptu conversation with a young grade schoolteacher about their curriculum. I was drinking wine, and he was drinking water from a glass while seated. 

A few minutes later, he told me he was dizzy while grasping the edge of a round table. I suspected there was a moderate earthquake, but there was none. I thought he was joking, but it was clear he was not. Then it occurred to me: it could be a heart attack.

He sat firmly, stared into my eyes, held my arms, and asked for his glass of water. He said, "kalma lang!" 

After a few moments, he stood up and left, joining his colleagues on the other side of the hall, leaving his cell phone on the table.

"What could it be?" I asked, puzzled.

I strolled across the room to inform one of his female colleagues whether the newest member of the faculty had a medical condition and if there was a medic on the premises. She claimed she'd watch after him.

Several minutes later, I motioned for the schoolteacher at the other side of the hall, who was looking better, to come over. He then revealed to me his medical condition. 

He recently suffered an epileptic episode telling me remembering everything (important to note).  His first attack was during the pandemic. His last seizure occurred during a basketball game.

I asked him if he had seen a doctor, as I have no knowledge on seizures. He answered yes and is currently taking medication, but he has been asked to undergo an MRI.

He already has a PWD ID and has been working only for a year after graduation, but he still needs to earn funds for his medical procedure.

I was shocked learning this. With no medical background, I felt helpless in a condition like this. I don't even know his name.

Reaching home, I researched on the condition which generally stated that:

1. Person with the patient experiencing seizure must remain calm. Showing panic can aggravate the situation.

2. Time the seizure. Beyond 5 minutes is already an emergency situation needing hospitalization.

3. Movement and mouth should remain free and not controlled.

As I checked my reaction against the guides, I responded appropriately, and it was mainly because the schoolteacher prompted me before the seizure not to panic.

I was glad that the seizure of the schoolteacher I struck a short conversation with was just mild. But I pray that he gets support for a thorough medical examination from a neurologist.