I have to say that today was a very extraordinary Saturday for Vigattin Radio. Usually, our guests are personalities known in the industry, with a white collar job and a secure source of income. But today, our guest was a common Filipino, a disabled person selling sampaguita garlands on the streets of San Juan. Today, Vigattin Radio has recognized those who are often ignored, neglected, and shunned. Our program today was a reminder that everyone is, and should be, equal.

Sir Eli and I saw Raymond when we stopped on a red light along San Juan. He only has one hand, his legs are short, and one of his feet is bent in an odd angle. He was selling sampaguita garlands, and when Sir Eli handed him a 20-peso bill and told him to keep the sampaguita, he declined. Instead, he gave the garland to us and said, "Sir, I'm doing my job. I'm not asking for alms."

Raymond is unlike most vendors and beggars who would easily grab a spare change handed to them. He has principle and perhaps a little bit of pride that makes him get a decent job without being a freeloader in the society. His physical disability doesn't hinder him from selling sampaguita on the streets. I've seen a lot of beggars who are physically capable of getting a wholesome job somewhere but chooses not to because they are relying on the kindness of people. Raymond isn't like that. We can see that he is striving to work and live normally despite his disability.

This encounter made me remember one question I saw in an online forum: Does altruism feed a society of freeloaders and parasites? I guess, in a sense, it does. But looking at people like Raymond, altruism will go miles if aimed at the right direction. "Give a person a fish and he will live for a day. But teach that person how to fish and he will live for a lifetime." Let's not give those beggars just a spare change; rather, let's give them a living, a small business they can sustain for a long time.

Today, we are all reminded of our social responsibilities. In this country, where putting food on the table is really hard work, let's not be blinded by our individual needs and familial obligations. It's not always about giving back, but also about giving forward to the less fortunate people of the Philippines. Who knows, by doing so, a greater reward is waiting for us.

Also, make Raymond an inspiration. We complain everyday about a lot of things we are not happy about and we are flooded with negativities. I observed Raymond earlier, and he looked contented with his life, albeit the difficulties it surely offers. He was always smiling. Compared to him, I think we really need more appreciation and a lot of positive thinking.

So, this is all for today. It was surely a very life changing episode for all of us.

For those who missed the airing, watch the recorded stream here: