Conversation: #ShareACoke

WHAT MAKES YOU WANT TO #SHAREACOKE? Join the conversation on Wednesday, August 27. Graphic by Raffy De Guzman

MANILA, Philippines - Names are more than just labels we call ourselves and others. They carry familiarity and meaning. A name holds memories and the feelings attached to them. Joyful moments are hardly ever experienced alone. Most of our most cherished memories are shared and made with the people we hold dear.

While happiness can be found in sharing something with friends and family, for Dave, sharing something with a stranger carried some surprising results.

After a tiring marathon of running errands, Dave felt the urge to pass by a nearby convenience store to grab a drink. After all, it was a hot day and he needed that extra pick me up that only an ice cold beverage could provide – the kind that makes you go aaaaah after a big gulp.

On his way to the store he noticed a mother and child begging for spare change. He thought nothing of it at first. After all, encounters like these are not uncommon in our country and sadly, we tend to get desensitized.

However, upon reaching the section for cold beverages he noticed all of the Coke cans were labeled with the name ‘Nay.

Seeing this as a nudge from the universe, Dave bought two cans – one for him and one for the mother outside. After seeing the gratitude on the mother’s face he took a swig of his drink and realized that it was the most meaningful Coke he’s ever had.

Whether stranger or friend, small gestures like that show others that they are appreciated. Maybe that name on the bottle already means something to you. Or maybe it’s an invitation to meet someone.

On Saturday, August 27, 4 to 6 pm, Rappler and Coca-Cola Philippines held a conversation about the people in your life who bring you happiness. All of these people have names and we asked you, which ones would you like to see on that special Coke bottle?

How else can you express your gratitude? What simple joys keep you happy and how do you pay it forward?

Netizens joined the conversation using #ShareACoke and shared with us us the names, and the stories behind them that have made them happy.

Read below to see what people had to say. – Rappler.com

Still searching for your personalized Coke? Head over to www.ShareACoke.com.ph and click the “Find A Name” tab to find out if your name is available in stores. You can also join the #ShareACoke Tour to get names printed on a Coke at the Coca-Cola booths in participating malls and supermarkets. Keep posted for schedules and updates at www.CokeURL.com/ShareACokeTourPH.

The name in this story has been changed to protect the privacy and identity of the person involved.