EULOGY OF MATTHEW TAN FOR PATRICK ZALDARRIAGA

Last summer, I chose to pick up on my reading.

A book that well ended up in my hands was Tuesday with Morrie by Mitch Albom.

One very important saying I got from that book is, “Death isn’t always what we perceive it to be.”

I completely agree with that line. Why do we look at it as an end, when the journey towards it is the one we keep an eye on.

What matters is how those moments were spent, who they were spent with, and why they were spent.

I think Patrick clearly showed us that it should be spent with vigor, passion and love for whatever you do.

He always had this aura that would light up the corridor as he was on his crutches.

I even remember him challenging another friend who was on crutches to a race.

This showed me that no matter what condition you’re in, there’s no excuse to have fun with the people you love.

I honestly don’t have much to say, I don’t share the memories with him as a classmate. Just a person who passes and greets him during breaks.

But I can say this.

As I walked into the room, two things caught my eye.

1. The Katangi-tangi Xaverian Award

This is given to someone who exemplifies zeal in his life.

This showed us that Patrick undoubtedly had the zeal to live life to its fullest.

2. Lastly, the belt.

This belt was that of a champion. This belt represented courage and love. This belt was Patrick’s.