Thunder rolls to the east of Cubao.

Whenever the sky sends signals, the primordial man within me looks upward or out the window, and my consciousness rises above the rooftops to scan the neighborhood and the city beyond it. I think of loved ones far and near. I wonder whether the gods and goddesses are displeased about someone or something.

I light a scented candle and take consolation in its steady and unwavering flame.