THE middle-aged farmer was basically a contented man. He was not disposed to complain and tended to be appreciative of his many simple blessings.


His rice crops provided him with two major harvests every year. From the sales, he improved his nipa hut (bahay kubo) into a house with more solid wood panels and hollowblocks. The bamboo stilts were changed to cement. He had a narra living room set and an ever-blaring radio.

He dressed simple and on Sundays heard mass in town with his clean blue jeans (maong). Occasionally, he went to a movie and even placed modest bets in the sabong (cockfight).

His four children all attended high school. He was sure his wife reserved some funds for the future college education.

Each night, he had a straightforward word of thanks to God. Never in his life did he ask the Lord for anything.

"You are missing what is due you," insisted his best friend. "That is what God waits for in heaven. For you to ask for something. The wilder the better. Before you die, you should at least pray for some specific request."

"I am all right. Without asking, God has blessed me," the farmer commented in an even voice.

That night, he thought about his best friend’s remarks. "Why not? I have nothing to lose. After all, this is the first and only time I will do it. He knelt and in an inaudible tone prayed, "God, I have never asked You for anything. This time I have one. Please, make me win in the national lottery. Just once. Amen."

For a month, the farmer waited. But nothing happened. Another month and still no result.

On the third month, the farmer knelt and in all solemnity declared, "God, I asked You to make me win the lotto. Just one request. But you have not responded." In an aggrieved voice (may hinanakit) he added, "Pagbigyan mo naman ako."

Suddenly a booming voice from above said, "Pagbigyan mo naman ako. Bumili ka naman ng lotto ticket (Give me a break. At least buy a lotto ticket)!"