WE LEAD such busy lives that the days, weeks and months sometimes zip by without our finding the time to look back, take stock, appreciate the kind friends and strangers who?ve crossed our path ? and express our gratitude for their and heaven?s small mercies and amazing gifts.

On a recent trip abroad, we finally found the time to slow down, introspect, and thank our lucky stars ? and the stars in our personal firmament:

Thanks to Sampaguita Pictures matriarch Mama Nene Vera-Perez, now in her mid-90s, for continuing to shine as a sterling example of what genuine love for film is all about ? and how it should endure.

Guide

To Eddie Romero (he?s in his 80s), for having been our guide for decades, teaching us valuable lessons that only a wise (not wizened) film master like him could impart. Best of all, he continues to direct significant productions at an age when all of his contemporaries have retired or left us, proving that genuine film talent is ever vigorous and vital.

Thanks to Behn Cervantes, an all-around goodfella for all ages and rages ? and an even better friend. Come to think of it (how quickly we forget), it was Behn who helped turn timorous us into ?opposition,? and espouser of some causes that more ?practical? people choose not to uphold. We also fervently thank Behn for bringing some wonderful people into our life, like Haydee Yorac and Lorna Kapunan.

Cherished people

Thanks, too, to Bibsy Carballo, for her many aw-shucks kindnesses and loving gifts of heart and hand (like her kooky ceramic mugs, which loopy leprechauns would love to drink from). Like Behn, Bibsy has effected life-long introductions to some of the most constant and cherished people in our life, like Eggie Apostol, Toti Fuentes and Arlina Onglao ? who in turn have brought other valued friends into our ever-expanding firmament.

Behn?s and our deep friendship with our barkada, Au Cobarrubias and Lollie Mara, has not only stood the test of time, it has transcended it. Through thin and thick ? and thicker! ? We have held on to one another, sometimes for dear life. More than fast and furious friends, we are family.

Our heartfelt thanks also go to Mag Cruz Hatol and Elvira Go, for their loving friendship, and for their critically important efforts at AnakTV to encourage the production of truly child-friendly shows on Local TV. Since many producers fail to measure up in this regard, AnakTV has a tough row to hoe, which is why we have been supporting it all these years.

Special tribute

So many more people to thank, and so little space left in which to do it! All in a mad but fervently grateful rush now, as we pay special tribute to our dear friends and soulmates, who have brightened our life and warmed our heart ? Cheloy Dans, Laurice Guillen, Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Boots Anson-Roa, Letty Magsanoc, Isay Alvarez, Robert Seña, Ryan Cayabyab, Robbie Tan, Mitch Valdes, Linda Lapuz, Fr. Guido Everaert, Gines Tan, Marichu Maceda, Leo Rialp, Maria Montelibano, Ramon and Lay-An Orlina, Edmund Sicam, Andy Bais, Rito Asilo, Doy del Mundo, Rica Arevalo, Celine Fabie, Crispina Belen, Ricky Davao, Dulce, Jeanne Lim, Rey Manalo, Jun and Rora Tolentino, Susan Calo-Medina, Mary Ann Bautista,
Tommy Abuel, Lou Veloso, Emily Abrera, Butch Francisco, Tony and Rosemarie Villamor, Jun Nicdao, Tetchie Agbayani, Manny Castañeda, Alfred Vargas, Francine Prieto, Gigi Posadas, Jograd dela Torre, Albert Avellana, Ivi and Allan Cosio, Pete Lacaba, Joan Orendain, Ruby Paurom, Gani Yambot, Nene and Bing Pimentel, Nikki Ross, Isabel Wilson, Jaime Laya, Margie Moran-Floirendo, Cynthia Salazar, Alita Divino, Jerry Gracio, Pilar Pilapil ? etc! We have been truly blessed.