There was sadness and tears when I heard of the death of Fr. Ernesto Nidini, MI.   He was such a good and non-assuming guy.  We worked and lived together in Bangalore, India for six months in 1985.

In my opinion, without the dedication and tireless effort of Ernie, the Indian delegation would never have flourished like it is now.  He was its soul and spirit.

May you enjoy your eternal reward in heaven, Ernie.

A portion of our road will be cemented.  Been here a long time and the road is still not completely cemented.  Wonder why?

The chain saw boys are quiet.  You know why?  It’s against the law to cut coconut trees for lumber now.  Better late than never.

Here’s my question to ponder and meditate on:  In this “so-called economy boom” in the Philippines why are the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer?

I knew it was coming.  I could smell it.  The problems of rice shortage, lack of jobs, environmental destruction, squatters everywhere, etc. are all caused by over-population.  Of course corruption, greed, etc. have nothing to do with the problem.  How’s that for baloney?

Good News!  Mayor Lim of Manila and some lawmakers want to promote Vat-Free exemption of certain food items and medicine.  My hat goes off to them.  Did our social justice group play any role in this proposal?

Still no bill on less expensive medicine.  Now that’s baloney.

Saw on TV that this year 2008, there are 400,000 college graduates but only about 40,000 jobs available.  Guess that means more foreign workers pouring more dollars into the Philippine economy.

Why create jobs here?  Just have more OFWs and they will provide the economy with more money.  Sure is a lousy way to treat workers. It seems quite clear creating more jobs here is not a high priority.

Until next month, Fr. Tom Welu, MI.

P.S. It would be a fitting memory of Fr. Nidini if a house of formation or clinic be given his name.  He needs to be always remembered.