Admiration for Pacquiao is not lessened

I couldn’t believe the sight of so many of our coconut trees uprooted by supertyphoon “Pablo.” I couldn’t believe either the sight of our dear Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao knocked out by Juan Manuel Marquez. It seems the wrath of nature did not just destroy our coconut trees, it also felled our most loved and respected boxing icon.

Now Pacman is being advised to retire. It would take years to rehabilitate our coconut industry and our coconut growers must do it. Now does Pacman need to go back to the ring to prove he beat Marquez? Does he have other options?

He could start training young boxers to follow in his footsteps, or he could run for a higher office in the government. He could remain a pastor and serve the Lord. He has many options that would be less risky to his health and life than a career in the ring.

The Mayan calendar ended its fifth cycle on Dec. 2l; and Dec. 22 will start its sixth cycle just like Jan. 1 starting the new year of the Gregorian calendar.

Pacman must wait and see what happens between now and Dec. 2l before deciding whether he has to go back to the ring to redeem his pride. Whatever he decides, I personally will support him. He has given so much to our country; his loss to Marquez does not lessen my admiration, gratefulness and love for him. Pacman, praise the Lord! You are a true Filipino, I am so proud of you.—LOURDES AMOR PARAS, [email protected]