Of Tapes and Glues

Before the invention of Scotch tape, gluing paper was very ceremonial. I experienced using cooked rice spread evenly and thinly on one side of a carefully cut strip of paper before it is used to patch things together, then the use of cooked flour that gives smell after a few days.

During the Japanese occupation, we, the pupils were ordered to cover all American pictures in all books. We used the ripe fruit of "anunang" as glue. It was very effective and good smelling too.

I think glue and tapes are relatives. They serve similar purpose: to help things cling to one another. Metaphorically it is like love that binds the persons together.

Now both glues and tapes come commercially in various containers with different shapes, colors and usefulness. Some are very deceiving just like their human counterparts.

With the coming of tapes and glues, come also sealing waxes and the likes. The whole nation is in complete disarray like broken pieces of papers in danger of being blown away; like a roof with many holes. We can all serve as tapes and glues and sealing waxes to keep our country in better shape.