The Mats — by Francisco Arcellana

 


https://www.amazon.com/Mats-Francisco-Arcellana/dp/0916291863


The short story entitled “The Mats” is written by Francisco Arcellana and published in 1938. In this sad story, Mr. Angeles comes back from a trip with a special surprise for his family: colorful sleeping mats with each family member's birthstone. The kids are excited, looking forward to seeing these unique mats. But when Mr. Angeles shows the mats, the happy mood changes a lot. The mats not only have the names of the living kids but also the names of their brothers and sisters who passed away. This makes the occasion sad and heavy, very different from the happy start. The family feels a strong and quiet sadness, as the mats meant for the ones who are no longer here bring back memories of loss and remembering them. Mr. Angeles tried to honor the memories of the ones who passed away with these mats, but it turns into a moment where everyone thinks deeply about the sad times in the family's past, creating a sad feeling in the middle of what was supposed to be a happy time.

 

This story is like a quick but powerful movie that revolves around a big event—the arrival of special mats for each family member. Because the story is short, it makes this event feel even more important, making the surprise and the feelings that come after it stronger. The tale gives a strong mix of happiness at first, followed by a sad feeling. By focusing sharply on this one moment, the story shows how crucial it is to remember and value the memories of people who are no longer with us. It's like a vivid snapshot, showing the emotions when someone we love isn't there and the special memories they've left behind. The shortness of the story acts like a magnifying glass, making the emotions deeper and leaving a strong impression on readers, much like the impact of a short but powerful message.

 

            This story is a touching exploration of family and memories and why they are important. It emphasizes the significance of remembering our loved ones, even when they are no longer with us. Although the story is short, it carries a strong emotional impact, addressing profound feelings such as love for family and the longing for those we hold dear. It is suitable for schools because it can spark meaningful discussions about the importance of family, coping with loss, and the value of cherished memories. The story aligns well with the values promoted in SDA schools, emphasizing kindness, and understanding. Additionally, its brevity makes it accessible for students to read and discuss in class. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of family and the enduring impact of happy moments in our lives. Overall, it is a valuable story for SDA schools to encourage students to think about empathy, resilience, and the lasting influence of family.

 


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