As the sun disappeared into the horizon, the banging sounds of drums, dancing feet and music filled the festive air. It was the celebration of the New Year. The villagers went out to the streets to celebrate. And there was a boy, called Pedro. He would only come out for big festivals like this. He was the pianist.
Pedro, a typical village boy from a remote village called San Remigio in the Philippines was an unusual 18-year-old. He did not go out for parties, dancing, sports, and chasing girls like most teenagers did. He was tall, handsome, and had black wavy hair. He was also timid and did not have many friends. The only friend he had was his piano. When he plays the piano, it would always provide him amusement. But, many felt pity by just looking at him.
But there was a very obvious reason to feel pity for him. His mother was suffering from a terrible illness. Pedro sought the help of the village doctor, Dr. Jaime.
“So, what seems to be the problem doctor?” asked Pedro.
“I am sorry.” said Dr. Jaime.
Pedro’s face changed.
He knew something was not right.
“ Helen…. has terminal cancer,” said Dr. Jaime in a depressed voice.
Pedro did not answer. He was speechless.
Since then, Pedro has been taking care of his mother every day and night. He never complained about anything. “Pedro that is enough for today, you’ve done so much work already,” said Helen in a soft voice. “Do not worry about me mother. I would work from day till night if it could cure your illness….,” said Pedro in a determined tone. “Oh Pedro…,” replied Helen. She then gave a faint smile and went to bed. Pedro looked on and felt helpless because they were poor.
A few days later, a perfect opportunity came knocking on his front door. Pedro opened the door and saw a lady. She was visiting her relatives at the village and heard Pedro practicing. “Hello there! Are you Pedro the pianist?” asked Florence. Pedro answered, “Yes I am”. “My name is Florence. I heard your music and liked it a lot,” said Florence. “Thank you very much” said Pedro. “You see, I’m an instructor at a university and I would like to offer you a scholarship” said Florence, trying to convince Pedro.
Pedro never felt happier in his life. He accepted the offer, but the condition was to perform Chopin’s ‘Fantasy Impromptu’ at the university’s Welcoming Concert which was due to happen in a week. Pedro got to work immediately. He practiced piano so intensely, like his life depended on it.
The day of the great concert then came. Everyone was ready for Pedro. He was ready for them. He was escorted to the venue by Florence. While journeying to the university, Florence received a call. Suddenly, the car came to an abrupt stop. Pedro’s heart started beating vigorously. Florence said that they had to take an emergency detour quickly and she had no time to explain.
They reached the hospital. Pedro was shivering till the tips of his thin fingers. He went into the hospital ward and saw his mother lying on a bed. He sat next to her and held her hand. They did not speak, but they gazed into each other’s watery eyes. She then passed on to the next world.
The concert did not wait for him. He retreated back to his village and remained as the village pianist. But, he never regretted being beside his mother because, ‘Time and Tide wait for No Man’.
THE END.
