Lessons Learned from Ate Vi's Ensaymadas

1. Do not post on social media anything that might embarrass a person (who is a famous person at that)

Kris Aquino did it in good faith – when she posted on her Instagram the now famous ensaymadas that Batangas Governor Vilma Santos gave her, along with a card that contained grammar lapses committed by the Governor. However, I am more than definite that Kris noticed such lapses, being one person who exhibits a good command of the English language, but continued to post it just the same.

If I were Ms. Aquino, I would not have not included the card, for the reason that my prescient thinking would tell me that the Star for All Seasons will drown in denigration for it. You would not want to put a person like her in a bad light, right? 

It should be noted as well, that cyber people can be the harshest critics of all.

2. Popularity is synonymous to high expectations

            Celebrities live a fishbowl existence, wherein every move they make and every word they utter, are all captured and magnified by the press and social media, most especially if controversial. A single and simple mishap they commit will surely land them in newspaper, tabloid, and social media pages.

            Hence, Ate Vi, as the Governor is fondly called in showbiz circles, receiving a lot of flak for her blunder is not surprising at all. To start with, she is neither a comedienne nor a Melanie Marquez to be able to get away with it – scot free. For one who is a serious and accomplished actress, and a successful local official at the same time, much is expected of her.

            People have higher expectations to those whom much is given. And such people are usually the ones who are most unforgiving. Thus, Ms. Santos was not spared from simple errors she has committed.

3. Humility is the best revenge

         Governor Vi simply took everything in stride. All the bashings thrown her way by self-proclaimed priests of grammar did not affect her at all. In a message to Kris, she even thanked them, and told Kris as well that all criticisms are being taken by her constructively.

            It was a classy response from her. Ms. Santos had all the right to turn the tables on her bashers, being a powerful force in both showbiz and politics, but decided to take the other route instead. A peaceful one if I may add.

            She was humble enough to admit her mistake (in an indirect manner though). Ate Vi has shown humility since day one of the rumpus.

     

          How about you, what lessons have you learned?