Brown Eyes

II.With The Wrong Crowd

As the motorized Banca sped through parts of the West Philippine Sea, Brad couldn't help reminisce of his crazy days in Manila.drinking and gambling. Brad's father will constantly remind and warn him,"Brad, always remember these, Always, stay out of trouble, keep your nose clean.Stay away from the wrong crowd.," But despite the constant reminders of his parents, he incessantly began smoking, drinking and gambling He started young and went wih the  wrong crowd of Avenida, Manila. He progressed to  cards where earning bigger money was fasterThats why he chose to accept this Palawan assignment to stay away from
anymore trouble in Avenida He understood that he had to stay far away from them to save what's left of himself. If he doesn't mend his ways there were only 2 paths left for him, into jail or 6 feet under. This was a chance for him to detoxify,clean himself up land find his true purpose in life. There was a time he stayed awake for four straight days drinking and  gambling He was developing paranoid behavior. He often  had a strong often uncomfortable desire to drink. He knew alcohol is bad for him and it eventually kills the brain cells leaving the person dull  but Brad enjoyed drinking. He felt drinking brings the best out of him. It builds his confidence, he tells great stories and he felt that his vices kept his mind from personal issues and problems. He needed an escape from all his problems and all the negativities in the world He would bring this habit back at home. When he began to earn He would spend drinking sprees with the male boarders in the big 5× 10 square meters room in the third floor where they rent out to male boarders. Till the  last bottle and Last Man standing was his mantra.His parents wondered what was happening to him.He used to be a shy and obedient boy without any vices until  his grandmom caught him lighting a smoke outside a. friend's home

He would instigate trouble with other students nside medical school  and usually came to school reeking of alcohol. His concerned friends asked Brad what his problems were and  if he needs someone to talk to." No! I don't need anybody's help, I can handle this on my own. Leave me alone!" Brad was fast gaining notoriety. Many of his friends are trying to avoid him because of his attitude problem,as they noticed his sudden change in behavior. He felt like he was carrying a lot of problems. He would go drinking all night and sleep during classes . The changes in his behavior were very noticeable. But Brad was one lucky guy. thoughHe would still finish med school eventually.

Brad was an achiever especially during his younger years.His father, in particular wasn't remiss in guiding him. His parents were full of pride and joy whenever he received some sort of recognition from school.That was a long time ago, now  Brad is recognized for smoking,drinking and gambling. What a twist of fate!