Brod Rich Buencamino’s 70-page paperback gave this author the kind of longing for something that perhaps many, if not all, readers will find unfathomable. It is more than just a collection of beautifully written poems but an anthology that chronicled his life after a very unfortunate incident nine years ago that rendered him “physically-challenged”.

Through the course of reading his book, there have been numerous awakenings and metanoia in myself that begs the question: “Is life on earth fair?” In “My Elevator Ride Down to My Grief”, he eloquently illustrated the events of that fateful June 12, 2000 when he suffered a stroke from an AVM. I can surmise how difficult it is for him to go back to that time. His “Daddy & Mommy’s Boy” struck a chord as it depicts his realization of how important his parents are. The opening salvo (of the same title as the book) foreshadows the brand of poetry he so effortlessly conjured, he as an instrument of rhymes and a master of metaphors. It is a smooth read from start to end. Simply put, Brod Rich’s book can and will awaken readers to the gift of life. It is a must-read for those who have lost in life and are slowly finding ways to rise. It is enjoyable as it is moving, a true tear-jerker if you may.

It occurred to me when I read the last poem how peculiar this “meeting” was between the two us. Never mind if I never saw and shook hands with him at the Mu hut (during his recent visit at the College of Medicine) or if he can no longer speak clearly or write legibly (as the dedication shows). Brod Rich has definitely introduced himself to me and I became more than just a reader and admirer of his works. Shortly after reading the last page, I found myself writing this review, or perhaps more appropriately a tribute to the wonderful story of his life, one that is well-lived and continues to be so.

Thank you Brod Rich for sharing your story.

Since I am a MU
By Richard B. Buencamino, M.D.

My personal problems no matter how enormous,
I need not sit alone in that empty darkness
Hand-in-hand  with brothers & sisters… I will overcome
To life’s adversities…I  refuse to succumb!

There in that darkness, I pondered
First, the greatest  pillar of all… BROTHERHOOD that was engendered by our founders,
I can attest to this solemn  fact,
As brothers & sisters who I don’t even know…this, they would enact.