Gloria, Villar and the Dying Priest

An old priest lay dying in the hospital. For years, he had faithfully served the people of the Diocese. He motioned for his nurse to come near.

"Yes, Father?" said the nurse..

"I would really like to see MANNY VILLAR and GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO before I die." whispered the priest.

"I'll see what I can do, Father." replied the nurse.

The nurse sent the request to them and waited for a response. Soon the answer arrived after a few days. VILLAR and GMA would be delighted to visit the priest.

As they went to the hospital -- with a cadre of reporters and TV crew tagged along -- VILLAR whispered to GMA;

"I don't know why the old priest wants to see us, but it will certainly help our political images." GMA couldn't help but agree.

The priest's hospital room was already packed with reporters and TV crew when they arrived. The priest took GMA's hand in his right hand and VILLAR's hand in his left. There was silence and a look of serenity on the old priest's face.

Finally VILLAR spoke in a loud voice so everyone can hear, and facing the cameras for more impact;

"Father, of all the people you could have chosen, why did you choose us to be with you as you near the end?"

The old priest slowly replied, but in a loud voice so everyone can hear;

"I have always tried to pattern my life after our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

The old priest continued....

"He died between two lying thieves. I would like to do the same."