Comprehension Chart

The MATS
Francisco Arcellana

4 Life Lessons that can be derived from the Story

It shows in this story that Filipinos tend to be naturally sentimental people. Most Filipinos tend
to hold things with special care especially those given to us by our loved ones. The Mats shows
also a very Filipino value - a deep sense of close family ties and bonding. The moral of the story
is to always remember and honor the dearly departed. Simply means that the Life Lessons that
can be derived from the story are the family relationship, ties and bonding, respect for elders,
and remembering our loved ones who passed away. The story showed to us that we should not
forget our loved ones no matter how many years had passed since they left us. They became a
part of our life. It is just a way to honor their life and memories. The sleeping mats became the
outlet for the father’s intention. It was used to pay tribute to his three kids who were not with
them anymore.

3 Similarities you and one character in the story share

The pain he felt towards missing his children (Though in my case it’s my mama, I miss her so
much to the point that it still hurts to remember that she’s not here anymore.)
Still longing for the presence of loved ones (It cannot be denied that once you lose someone
you still long for them, and that’s the same with me.)
Despite the loneliness he still continues to live (No matter how hard I’ve been through I still
look at the bright side because I know that I’m not alone and that keeping myself down
every time will not give me any help)

Losing the one we loved forever was something very painful to experience. It was just too
difficult to bear. They left holes in our heart which we know will never be filled anymore. But
still we, we keep living.

2 Effects on the family brought about by the death of the

three children
1. When someone dies, the whole family system is thrown off. Pain is still
present when one of the family members talk about the dead family member
(children). This pain was still experienced by Mr. Angeles Family when they
talk about the unfolded mats.
2. Still commemorating the lost of their children by preparing mats. It provides
avenue for the family to remember them. Thus, Liveliness of their family was
affected, resulting to a deathly dull.

One thing you will do if you were one of the characters in

the story.
If I were one of the characters in the story, I'd still choose what Mr. Angeles did -
Preparing 3 extra Mats for the dead children. It only shows that Mr. Angeles
remembered his children even if they're on the other side of life. Moreover, Mr.
Angeles action signifies a typical Filipino person who has a strong family ties.
Thus, that is the reason why I'd still choose his action.

N31
Josol, Kathleen P.
Lagura, Rosejel Mae D.