Win or Lose

Since she was crowned Bb Pilipinas - Universe last April, I have been a fan. Blessed with natural beauty, innate intelligence, excellent education and perfect set of teeth, I asked myself who could be more deserving to represent the country than  

Shamcey Supsup. 

Confessedly, I am one of those who got a bit dismayed that she didn't get the crown. It's not because Leila Lopes (Ms Angola) doesn't deserve it. Of course, she does. It's only because I was looking for some upliftment for our country in this annual display of adorable faces. Self-serving, huh? I'm sorry I couldn't help it. This year, we also had a quality representative, we had an edge. But in a beauty pageant like this, the ultimate question isn't, "Who's the most beautiful of them all?" To quote Gloria Diaz, it should rather be, "Who's the luckiest woman?"

I believe Leila was lucky enough to answer an easier question. Anyone can simply state which part of their body they would want to change if given a chance and no one would hate them for that. Since she pointed out it's her inner beauty that creates radiance, it gave more impact to the cheering crowd. Shamcey, on the other had, was thrown a value question. To impress people, she must gain nods from everyone, especially the judges.

Considering the stage fright she must have felt that night, everyone opines she answered it with conviction. Every word she uttered is part of her character. I appreciate not only her eloquence but also her personal revelation to the whole world. However, I must admit I don't totally concur with the gist of her answer because I live a different hierarchy of values. If it were up to me, tolerance with our differences is more essential because it can bring peace to a highly pluralistic society. This respect for others' cultures and religion should not be a hindrance to relationships, even in marriage.

But again, that's just me. That's just the idealistic me. I'm not even saying this on stage within a 30-second time limit, with everyone ready to praise or condemn me, with seven critical judges evaluating my answer. I have even rephrased the previous paragraph many times.

Shamcey, thanks for taking our country to the top five. You did a splendid job and we are all proud of you. Win or lose, you got applauders here.