Si Melai!

by Stephanie Manhit

The three contenders for the Big 4 slot bravely faced Kuya’s endurance challenge: to stand atop a small platform in the middle of the pool for an undefined number of hours. No excuses were accepted to leave their roost. The three had to grit their teeth and hold against the call of nature, even if it was to relieve or feed themselves.
They had various strategies for keeping their post. Melai distracted herself with singing, Tibo chose minimal movement, Paul Jake massaged his frozen joints. All three tried stretching their limbs by crouching, taking care not to let other body parts touch the platform, aside from their feet. They kept warm from the sharp nip of the air by layering clothing and blankets. Nine hours after, all three were still standing strong.

The remaining housemates kept vigil over them, camping by the poolside. They kept the stories flowing and regaled their friends with jokes. Jason led the rest in an ongoing serenade. They cheered the three on and kept them going. For what or for whom did they endure such sacrifice? Paul Jake and Melai did it for themselves, their family and those who believed in them. Tibo thought nothing of himself, but offered the moment for his family.

A few minutes past the ninth hour and Kuya decided to push the housemates harder: only one leg was allowed on top of the platform! Though shifting legs was allowed, they had to focus on keeping their balance along with dealing with fatigue and natural factors. After a few moments, Kuya granted them a minute of rest, after which his instructions got even harder. Only the best leg could be used, with no shifting allowed.

Paul Jake could feel his strength waning, and apologized minutes before he plopped into the water. It’s been a hard day’s night for all three, but soon it was down to Melai and Tibo, standing on their best leg to the end. After another bout of rest, Kuya ups the challenge by making them lift their arms, too! Almost an hour passed with both holding on tight, but in the end, Tibo chooses to give up, leaving Melai as the last housemate standing! Too exhausted, Melai broke down in tears while the rest finally got to heave a sigh of relief.

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