Mr. Sebastian was a tourist to my little hometown. He was tall and very skeletal in appearance. He was all in white most of the time with a black leather belt and black polished shoes. He loved his camera and clicked all the way for us as we fondly called upon him to take our photos. He was from Philippines.
The story of Mr. Sebastian is never once I like to tell but a life lesson for all to know. Peace and God’s blessing with him today and as for me, Mr. Sebastian, I don’t want to be like you. This is the story from riches to rag but not that bad as Mr Sebastian found joy and happiness within himself before life conceded.
He was friendly and the townsfolk loved him when he first arrived in my little hometown. In less than 3 years, I began to see Mr. Sebastian scraping the town filthy drains working hard with the so-called ‘invalids’ cleaning and clearing drains and dump sites. But for Mr. Sebastian, as cheerful as ever, entertained the kids whenever able..this time without the camera.
Toward his end of days, he retired into loneliness, living in one small rented wooden shed surrounded with his loves of books, an old piano and a violin. I visited him one evening and he proudly and excitedly showed me his collection of books. I was then 13 years old. 1973. As usual, Mr. Sebastian played his violin, tapped into his piano keys with much joy that came deep right from his heart. Is this rag to riches or riches to rag? God bless you Mr. Sebastian. You will be fondly remembered.
Filed under: Books & Personality, Stories from the Past Tagged: | old stories, Sebastian
