The surviving siblings of the
Kelayan-Banaken family namely Jose, Juanita and Bartolome Sr., all of whom are in their ripe ages, proposed
a sort of a get-together among the progenies of the family which in a way maybe
considered a bidding adieu by the oldies. The members of the second and third
generations of the family readily responded with a great enthusiasm and held it in
Katayyaw, Liliteg, Guinzadan Norte which is an idyllic rural place. With the exception of those in the foreign countries and few locals who missed the occasion for one or another, a majority attended and all took part in the reveilles until late in the afternoon. It was remarkably noted that during the affair, the subfamily of Golgolan had the most in attendance. On the other hand, the subfamily of Juanita had the least attendance in the person of Victor B. Aluyen and his son Jonathan Aluyen although there are six siblings of them.
The said occasion was held on a Sunday being considered as a day of the Lord. It was very worthy to note that three (3) members rendered bible verses sharing in the opening program. Others went to church services before joining in the main activities.
I just noticed that there were very few members by affinity who showed up and I saw the need of extending prominence to these members for more intimate recognition. Also, there should be recognition of distinctions for every member of the family who contributed to uplift the prestige of the family. The first and second generations need not be included. I am very sure that the people from these generations knew very well one another while the younger generations do not. For instance, the third and present generations from the subfamily of Alipio Sr. going down to the order of births of the first generation. The growing kids are the ones who should know one another. Those who joined us by affinity should be separately introduced for intimate recognition. The succeeding generations shall soon have their respective turns to know very well each other as they grow older. Do siblings in these generations from each subfamily knew very well one another? I am very certain that they do not. Thus, a reunion shall be held periodically to give a must impact upon the younger members.
Similar to other family reunions, there was a usual presentation of subfamilies. As the day winds down, there has to be communal dancing and singing which may create a feeling that projects unity. For instance, Jose who has difficulty in walking can limp with spread arms and trail along a big circle of members to the tune of the gongs. Juanita who experienced legs paralysis can follow suit energized by the merry-making.
All of us were happy and satisfied with the success of the first family reunion. In a meeting among the second generation, they had unanimously agreed to conduct the second one in December 2015. It was then suggested that in order to give additional impact to all members, the reunion shall become a tradition of the family. It shall be held every two (2) years on a hosting rotation basis by the subfamily for the benefits of the up-coming generations.
I can now imagine that through a hole in the sky, our forebears Kelayan and Banaken are looking down at us with big, big smiles.
To GOD be the glory!
BARTOLOME L. BANAKEN SR.
Arranged and edited by: MBP
