From a Distance

From a Distance

Br. Marlon Reyes SSS is a 3rd year Theology student at Maryhill School of Theology. He is from the Archdiocese of Manila. He had his Pastoral Exposure at Davao City.

It’s time to go...
All things come to an end, even the best and the happiest ones.

When we surpass a mission, when a task given is done, when we have survived in difficulties, we sigh with relief, breathing out a silent prayer of thanksgiving.

But when the beautiful things end, the challenge of the moment is to respond with obedience and faith. God knows what is best. We must allow Him to lead us by the hand and to bring us to where He wants us to be.

I know that my pastoral assignment here in Our Lady of the Assumption Parish will end on the day my Superiors tells me that it is time to go. I will go where they tell me to go. I will leave when they tell me to leave. Religious life entails sacrifice. The core of sacrifice is obedience and love.

When the time comes for me to go, I will simply be called to serve Assumption Parish from a different perspective. I will love the community from a distance.

I will still pray for this spiritual family from afar. My love for Assumption Parish cannot be ended. Love never ends. Only its character will change. It will be a love from a distance; a service impervious to distance and separation, because love knows no bounds.

When it is time to go, I will go. Parting always involves sadness. But parting is also a subtle invitation to plunge into deeper waters, to venture into the unknown, and trust the power of God ever more. It is only in dying that we can enter into eternal life. When we let go, God leads us by the hand, step by step, into His heart.

When it is time to go, I will carry in my heart many memories of many events, many faces. Life is not perfect. Life has its joys, but it also has its fair share of hurts and disappointments. I will remember the hurts with forgiveness. I will remember the disappointments with the healing power of God. And I will remember the joys with humility, knowing that God gave them to me not because I am deserving but because God is good.

To my friends and community here in Assumption, let me tell you before I go that I love you, with a love whose only regret is that you have not been loved enough. I will promise to love you and remind you always that the best place that God gave me for pastoral mission was here in Assumption.

When it is time to go I will go where God wants me to go. I will go. I invite you to go with me. As we walked together before, let us go... in this journey... together... with God... forever.
Easter Sunday 2010

Sa Hindi Kalayuan

Sa Hindi Kalayuan

Br. Peter John Abogado, SSS is a 3rd year theology student at Maryhill School of Theology. He is from the Diocese of Daet. He had his Pastoral Exposure at Cagayan de Oro City.

My Pastoral Exposure was a magnificent experience. I was away from my scholasticate community and from my usual academic life yet new learning had amplified my awareness especially on matters pastoral in nature. It was a 10 month exposure of meaningful experiences. I’m blessed that my pastoral exposure happened in one of our communities in Mindanao; at Nuestra Senora Virgin Del Rosario Parish , Brgy. Consolacion Cagayan De Oro City, under the supervision of Fr. Exzur M Eballe, SSS, Parish Priest and local superior of the community

My experiences have helped me in me discern about the potentials of the pastoral aspect of my life as a religious. I was able to enrich my capabilities in way which I aren’t find in books but are found in the pastoral needs of the parish as well as that of the community. It was a rich experience full of adventures and pressures but characterized by the call of service and dedication. It was also an opportunity for me to be in the real world of people who belong to the grassroots of the society; a life where the only means of their living is to work so as to provide food on their table. Perhaps without a firm religious foundation in my formation I would have faltered to do what I needed to do. Thanks to my community who served as my refuge during the times of my difficulties. Praised be Jesus And Mary!!

Malapit Lang

Malapit Lang

Br. Andres Malawis, SSS is a 3rd year Theology student of Maryhill School of Theology. He is from the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk. He had his Pastoral Exposure at Sta Cruz Parish, Manila.

Reminiscing those memories that I had from my Pastoral Year Experience at Sta. Cruz Parish gives a smile on my face both for the good and not actually that bad but let me just say, not so good. Putting them all together made me realize that they are all what I actually needed: for the good ones which helped me do better, and the “not so good” for reminding me that there is still a big space to be better. I am so blessed that the community was very supportive of me making me feel that I am no different from the rest of the members. And to all the people especially the different groups and organizations, working with one another may have been challenging at times but with the cooperation, encouragements and understanding received from them, each moment has become an achievement especially to me in my continuous aspiration to be formed and to be a better person in this call that I wish to follow.

This past year has been truly a yesterday that I will be delighted to carry all throughout my journey for it has not only gained me more friends but relationships that are a big boost or an inspiration to me to be kept grounded always. I know that it is a step higher this time; praying and hoping that those lessons would not remain as stored thoughts but as a daily vitamin to sustain a more open vision towards a bigger horizon. Although I have already said my “thanks” to all who have been part of the travel, the gratitude that I have in my heart remains forever. Thank you Lord.

A Piece of Crumpled Paper No More

A Piece of Crumpled Paper No More

Br. Ronel Fulo, SSS

How would you feel now afterI tore and crumpled the paper in front of you? The tearing and crumpling of paper is very much meaningful to me. It is like re-telling an experience in the past. A past that somehow broke my heart and yet and blessed me to be whole again.

Psychologists and even ordinary people would agree with me that it is normal for a child to expect, that at the beginning of a school year they would acquire new things. New bags, notebooks, crayons, pencils , etc. Unfortunately this did not happen in my childhood. I come from a poor family and I am somewhat conditioned by circumstances not to expect much. Often times I needed to save my old things so that I can use them for the next school year. You may conclude that I am a frugal child then. But honestly, I have learned to hate and curse the first day of the class where everybody would bring out their new things , all proud and smiling. With this piece of crumpled paper I have learned self pity and even became envious of my contemporaries in school.

Yet it never reduced my enthusiasm to study and learn, rather it became a strong ground that pushed me to finish my studies. But it also gave me a strong impression "that wastingeven a single paper is taking others the chance to go to school. Yes! That piece of crumpled paper had taught me a lot about life namely perseverance and success.

The experiences of happiness and loneliness of any person in his early years become a great foundation of his personality. Furthermore, it conditions our perception on how we face life's challenges and eventually become better persons. In my case, I came to know that happiness and success don’t fully rely on material things. They are found within the depth of one’s soul. It is only a matter of looking at the world with an enlightened sense of self. Others call this acceptance. I call it humility... for humility is indeed truth. A crumpled paper? Yes, it may look bad... but a good artist could turn it into a great work of art.

ZERO INTEREST

ZERO INTEREST

Br. Alvin Somcio, SSS

How do you feel if the person whom you gave everything; your life, your money – the entire you, becomes someone who will deny you? How do you feel if the person whom you look-up to and who has been your inspiration could never ever trust you.? And how would feel if that someone you loved the most is the very person who will abandon you? Now tell me, how would you ever feel?

All my life, I am fond of investing good deeds and no exchange kind of love to a certain individuals I really liked. As I have remember before, I could even bear to be their servant and do tasks that were beyond my capacity. I fixed their problems. I gave them allowances, allowances that were given to me by my family. Money that was asked for a project, educational trip and any sort of academe related activities that mostly after all were complete LIES. And the most unproductive and foolish thing that I’ve done to those persons is to deny the purpose of my existence. I chose to be understood by this people. I chose to be accepted by this people. I chose to be a fool… because I gave everything to them!! Leaving nothing for myself.

I was left helpless every time they showed that I was unimportant, that I was nothing, and that I have never existed. Foolishness is the next word that poped-out in my mind every time I recalled such moments yet it seemed I have never learned. Prior to my entrance and even before my profession I was still in a relationship hoping that Religious life will not fit my lifestyle and that I am called to a different way of life. I engaged in those situations because I can not deny my feelings – I was madly in love then! After profession, I never gave up! I still found myself fighting such romantic feeling like I was hit by the deceitful arrow ofcupid...I thought I was still in love. But it’s been a year now since I felt I was treated like I never existed at all – unimportant and yes ...nothing.

Because of those experiences, I learned to stand alone! I have learned to fight for what I believe is true! And I have learned to establish a very firm self confidence. Self confidence, which somehow is the reason why most of the people are intimidated by my presence. And the significant realization is the fact that I have learned to appreciate my very being. From that moment, I saw myself in a different perspective that I can exist without those people whom I cherished before. Perhaps loving exclusively is not really meant for me. I felt GOD did not allow it to happen because He has a different plan for me. I am being molded to a life where everyone can embrace my love. Thanks be to God for giving me such a very good religious formation!

Franz Kafka said in his novel metamorphosis “we have to make changes in our daily routine, from the ground up… you sit here in the dark while the living room is streaming with light… you sit in a closed window when the air would do you so much good”. Yes! Franz Kafka is true, why? Because if I give in to those negative investments, I think I won’t be here in front of you. Thank you GOD for allowing me to invest in You because now I have gained good things , and though the changes are neither instant nor quick , I know deep down in my heart that something great is happening inside of me.

If I can turn back the hands of time, I would rather invest in GOD than to my personal wants because investing in HIM would definitely gain unconditional benefits with zero interest.

It is Worth Celebrating....

It is Worth Celebrating....

Br. Joebel Analista, SSS

It was exactly 11 years ago when I graduated from college. It is so precious to me because out of that experience I was able realize that hardships and difficulties truly paid off . It is indeed a must to thank the people who are instrumental to my success. It is worth celebrating because the fruits of my labor for four years of trials and success, of ups and downs have finally conquered the major hindrance of success which is poverty.

It's worth celebrating, indeed, and that is how I describe my feelings right now. All the hardships that I had been through have become a thing of the past. I have surpassed them at last. Can you imagine, seeing me wearing a mint green polo as a uniform for three years? What motivates me to go on despite my situation was the life-giving thought that Education can change me. I do believe that those who are learned have all the chances to transform and prosper in this life. Every hardship has a corresponding success that awaits a patient individual. It's worth celebrating indeed. The goodness of the people who helped developed my potentials and molded me to become a better person with a good character and to be God fearing. I owe my education especially to my parents who were never tired of giving me their unyielding moral support. The great consideration that the late Fr. Romulo Pana has extended me has paved the way of my being accepted as one of the working students in Pius XIIInstitute. May his soul rest in peace. He passed away last May 13, 2010. Fr. Mulong wherever you are at this point of time of my life, I will never get tired of expressing my eternal gratitude to you. Thank you so much Father.

I really want to celebrate my success which led me here. I therefore say that hardships are just forunners of success . There was so much joy in me on that very day not only because I was able to finish college but also because it was a dream come true . My family especially my beloved mother shared this triumph of the human spirit. Thus, celebration is shared too. Everytime I recall that momentous day, March 22,2001, I am always moved to tears. My eyes become a fountain of tears of joy, tears of the fruit of labors, tears of the fruit of the meaningful event which changes my whole life. now and hereafter. Truly, it is worth remembering. It was the first moment in my life too to see my father crying. I know that in the depth of his heart, he was so proud to witness the college graduation of one of his sons. I am trying still to be one of the best and this never comes easy. I need to work harder but I am fully convinced, and I could say this with all humility that it is really worth celebrating the glory of one's struggles in life. I have dared and challenged myself... but it was a tranquil daring in believing that I can do it with God's merciful love. Yes I have reached my goals in more ways than one. It may be just a little victory...but it is worth celebrating...

EXPERIENCE IN REALITY

EXPERIENCE IN REALITY

Br. Arthur Abalos, SSS

Have You Ever Experienced satisfaction in your life before? Today, Reality, Courage and Positive Behavior are the things that I’m embracing. Qualities that helped me establish, a positive motivation towards my career and ambitions, and in looking forward of becoming a good speaker in front of the Graduating class both Pre-Elem and Elem level . It gives me enough courage and enthusiasm to speak about the reality that they have done a great job in achieving their part of their dreams in life. As one of their mentor in the past, the hope that I provided them better skills that would help them develop their respective talents was now a reality, a substantial reality that I can be proud of. I felt the elation in remembering what I have achieved right now in my life. And as I continue to assess my achievements during my time in the field of teaching , I can say that I did not fail instead I have won the battle of inferiority and criticism.

This is the reality of my experience, to continue to develop a good positive behavior by not stopping to believe in my own capabilities and to trust in God that I’m also gifted like them. As Ackerman said “think our way back into the feeling and this is our mission to success..

When a Window Closes...a Door Opens...

When a Window Closes...a Door Opens...

Br. Israel Cruz, SSS

Ring…Ring…Ring…
“Class, let us pray…Amen…Goodbye and thank you class…Goodbye and thank you

Mr. Cruz…”

Three years. Twenty one sections. Five days a week. These numbers are very significant to me. I loved teaching. I loved my students. I loved the classroom and the exchange of ideas and the growth and the development and the progress I witnessed every time I engaged with my students . Having been a Teacher for three years, I have heard and read many sayings that relate to the teaching: “To teach is to touch a life forever,” “A Teacher preserves the past, reveals the present, and creates the futures.” (Inspire for Teachers, Br. Josie Carr). March 25, 2008, the day I left the Espiritu Santo Parochial School. As I stepped out of the gate of that beloved school, my tears started to fall. Yes, reality bites, I am not a teacher anymore, I said to myself. At that time there were many things and experiences which came rushing back to my memory: the meaningful lessons I have also learned from my students, the warm acceptance of my colleagues and the confidence that I have earned from this profession.

After that, I put behind all those memories for me to continue my priestly vocation. I both value my profession as a Teacher and my Priestly vocation. But I rather choose the Priestly vocation for I feel I am called to answer a deeper voice lurking inside.

Now, I am one of the courageous gentlemen who is responding to the holy calling. At first, I was asking myself if my decision was right, but I didn't find the answer alone. I did not find any right answer from myself. Through my daily conversations with God, it made me realize His plan for me and that my decision was worth living for. He wanted me to be a Teacher not only to the four corners of the classroom but also to be a Teacher and Preacher in the education of life in a space larger than my classroom. This is my humble response to the emerging call to be with those who are hungry for the word of God. I might have left my classroom, yes, but I have gained a venue to be a teacher in the school of eternal life.

GOODBYE,IS IT TRULY A SWEET SORROW?

GOODBYE,IS IT TRULY A SWEET SORROW?

Br. Jon Sison, SSS

How many times have you said goodbye to someone? How did you feel every time you said goodbye? Why do they say that goodbye is such a sweet sorrow? Is goodbye synonymous with pain and sorrow? Is it heartbreaking and tormenting? Indeed, goodbyes seem to have the colors of sadness and pain. Yes, especially the pain of separation whether it is fleeting or forever. Everything which is left is emptiness and the only consolations are the tight hugs, teary eyes and the emotional breath brought about from the mere utterance of

The word Goodbye."

Gazing at the sight of parting is also accompanied by a deep desire to see each other again the soonest possible time. And the counting of days which turned into months and eventually bloomed into years slowly become unbearable.

When I left the house for the Postulancy Program in Davao, I still vividly recall how my father and I bid our goodbyes. It was very dramatic and an award winning episode. Even the Oscars could not beat it, kidding aside? We cried a river and we ended up with ” wet look" shirts and swollen eyes. We lost our poise, we’re so ugly! A couple of years later, came another goodbye and I had to leave again to enter the Novitiate Formation. Again, tears formed a pool between us , and I was overwhelmed with sadness once more because of the pain of separation. Thereafter, whenever I pay visit to him, expect that a river of Sweet Afton.

Long I have been contemplating why we are always like that. We are never tired of crying whenever we are parting ways. As if we are not capable of moving on, we are always caught by the drama of saying goodbye. Are there any other things goodbye brings to us aside from pains and hurts? Or we are just stuck up with our constantly recurring emotions? Is there anything good that comes from goodbye ?

I believe our goodbyes also surface the unexpressed love we have for each other. The love that missed a childhood chance to be intimately articulated as a growing boy. But alas, it found its way to be celebrated lately. It is in our separations that we best acknowledge how we love each other and that we cannot afford to lose the chance of expressing such noble emotions. It is in our absence that hearts go fonder for each other and that confirms there is more to our tears that go through our hearts, the power of love. Isn’t that so sweet that it leaves a soft spot in our hearts? A symbol which reminds both the father and the son of oneness and assurance. A safe refuge and an abode just in case the world decides to turn it back to us. We still have each other no matter what!

Truly, goodbyes do not only entail pains but also bring us to some hellos that will continually give us hope and inspiration. The several goodbyes my father and I have shared always remind us the love-bond that will forever be cherished. This will lead us to appreciate each other more and seize every moment every time we are together both physically and spiritually. And so, do we still cringe at the word goodbye? Or does goodbye give us a promise of saying Hello? I should know.

Tomorrow… is Never Too Late

Tomorrow… is Never Too Late

Br. Argi Decano,SSS

It was after the Sunday Mass that Fr. Eymard decided to leave Monteynard when his sister Marianne pleaded him to spend at least one more day with her. His wrenching reply to her pleas was, “Sister, God calls me today. Tomorrow will be too late.” Fourteen years ago, my brother Adrian told me that this time it’s my turn to continue my studies. It was because he already finished his college. Upon hearing this, I felt shocked because I felt that I was too old to continue. Besides I was already working even though I wasn’t able to finish college. But he insisted that it’s different when you are a college graduate. He explained further saying that “bigger opportunities are very much near you. Big salaries, lots of benefits, 13 month pays, and big bonuses are given to those who graduated a four year-course.

My mind was troubled whether I have to continue or not. My passion and enthusiasm in pursuing my academics life after high school were lost when I saw how my parents worked hard for us to finish. And that’s the reason why at the young age I decided to help my parents sending my little siblings to school. What was in my mind after finishing high school was to let go of my personal ambitions and let them finish first. I knew how important it was to have a college degree.

But the kind of life I had before was not as lucky like compared to those other children in our place. Until one day, I met someone who offered his help and gave me some advice. He explained to me how important it is for us to see the beauty of life especially when you finish a degree. Thanks be to God for sending me an angel. I was enlightened. And right away I went home and told my family about my decision. Four years later , during the month of March at 3pm, I saw myself walking along the aisle of our school gym wearing a toga with a big smile on my face. My brother and my angel were right. So my brothers if you miss something very important in your life don’t lose hope, as the the step mother of Cinderella in the movie Ever After said: Nothing is final until you're dead ... True enough , never say never... for “Tomorrow…is never too late.”

"Yes...Tomorrow Might Be Too Late"

"Yes...Tomorrow Might Be Too Late"

Br. Shaun Aliño, SSS

It was in the afternoon of the third of August, seven years ago (2003) when I rushed as quickly as I could towards the emergency room of Cebu Doctors Hospital. When I heard the names of very familiar doctors being called to proceed to the ER, my heart pounded faster and more intensely, and I became more and more disturbed like a restless sea. As I went near the door of the ER, I saw a frail body slowly exposed to my sight , as the crowd of doctors flew into oblivion. Trembling in fear and in total disbelief, I approached the body slowly and gently, but it dawned on me that even from a distance I could recognize undeniably the sweetest most familiar face I’ve ever known in my life. My heart was broken into pieces – I burst into tears sobbing like a helpless little boy as I embraced my mom so tightly like I never did before! Yes , she's gone... she has passed away…and I never even had the chance to tell her how much I love her or even to say good bye Mama! It felt like there was a dagger pierced in my heart. How could I ever miss saying I love you to this woman who gave me the very voice of utterance? How could I keep it to myself when my voice was like music to her ears?

Death indeed comes to us like a thief in the night. The untimely death of my mom was excruciatingly painful for I have missed the many opportunities to express my deep love and affection for her. Often times in the past I took for granted the feelings of people so close and intimate to me. I could hardly remember expressing to them in words how much I love and care for them. I presumed too much that since they know me too well, they too could read my heart. But I have realized that the gift of voice is meant to be heard.

I was wrong in presuming that they could read the voices silently lurking in my heart. I know too that the intention of letting them feel and hear how much they mean to me mattered the most. If words of gratitude could inspire other people, how much more can words of love do when conveyed to people dearest to us!

As the years came to pass, I have thought that no amount of tears could bring my mom back to life. In reality life is so short and things of the heart remain veiled until they are expressed. Let us therefore, cherish every moment with our loved ones and “SEIZE THE MOMENT” as Evelyn Payton in the World champoinship of Public Speaking of the Toastmaster's International put it. Let us continue to express our love in words, works and deeds. These will surely touch the lives of many - for life is simply too short, and yes..

.TOMORROW MIGHT just BE TOO LATE!

The Shadow of Death

The Shadow of Death

Br. Noli Atabay, SSS

There had been moments in my life when everything went smoothly. I just moved around in high spirit with glittering eyes coupled with some confident smiles. Deep within, I experienced joy, love and peace. It was like heaven. But all things passed away when my parents died. It was the moment when I fell into the abyss of discouragement which squeezed my whole being to the extent of giving up and losing hope to fight and to carry on.

I felt abandoned and rejected. I asked myself who will take care of me. I was only 12 years old then. In this world, it is difficult to live when nobody cares, loves and guides us especially when you are at a tender age of 12.What do I know? I kept on asking if there is God. Why did He allow this event to happen? I was asking then, does He really love me? At that moment I was angry with God. Yes, in fact, I blamed Him for what had happened to me to the extent that I refused to recognize His presence. I became skeptical and my young faith started to dwindle.

I stood to my own. I worked at a very young age in order to survive. But many years thereafter, I came to realize that God did not abandon me. He loves me despite my imperfections and weaknesses. He embraced me for who I am. God showed his love continually, no matter what, no matter how. God is a God of love... and that is beyond human imagination.

He allowed me to experience death by experiencing pain so that I may resurrect. As Jose Saramago in his novel, Death at Intervals says, “If there is no death, there is no resurrection”. The life of Jesus has shown this paradigm that He had to experience death in order to resurrect- and in order to experience the fullness of life. At that time when my parents died, I also felt death because of the death of my loved ones. I cannot fathom the message of God at that time. I was too young and the pain was simply unbearable. As time went by and as I have become a matured person I realized that it made me a better person, it made me stronger to face life’s adversities and challenges, it me made acknowledge that despite the negative experiences God is there. Truly, "whatever hurts you, blesses you... your darkness is your candle," to borrow the words of a Sufi mystic poet. That was a turning point in my life which led me to accept what life is all about, and that it is never complete unless pain is there; for such is the beauty of living.

Indeed, in life, we will experience the shadow of death yet; the light of Christ will continue to shine. With the shadow of death I have experienced the demise of my parents, and have I discovered the real meaning of Life in God! Death after all is a prelude to life that lasts forever.

WOUNDED BUT HEALED: BROKEN BUT LOVED

WOUNDED BUT HEALED:

BROKEN BUT LOVED

Br. Allen P. Peña, SSS

N obody escapes being wounded. We are all wounded people. How would you feel when everyone utters belittling comments to you? You are worthless! A dummy! A weak, silly creature! Do these words also sound familiar to you? Can you resonate with those?

In the past, these were the words that often resonate day in and day out during my childhood years. They were like my breakfast, lunch and dinner. Yes, they were like heavy baggages of load which keep on burdening my life; like the oceans turbulent waves that sweep away every confidence I could ever muster. I was afraid to live...afraid of knowing what is going to happen in my life. At night I would lie awake and wonder how long would this hurt lasts? When my father talked about me to other people, I shrunk in embarrassment. I felt I was a piece of ice cube starting to melt. Around my peer I’m shy and I easily get intimidated. I have a lot of fears, of insecurities and ghosts that keep haunting me." You are the dumbest kid I ever knew!" That was my father’s favorite line. But the good thing is I know deep down in my wounded heart, I wasn’t dumb. I wasn’t stupid. Not at all! There is a sense of greatness lurking inside of me and I could make it shine ... it will be seen in no time.

That was a story in the past...a story which has found a new ending... Tom Sanford says “things from one’s past take major importance in shaping the present.” Now after twenty five years, I can say that the window of the past has been closed and the door to a new horizon has opened my life. It is not easy to mend a broken self. I strived to reach the most difficult stage in my life and later I survived. I have turned every painful fiber of my experiences into a source of inspiration. The wounds I have had challenged me to endure the pain of putting myself back to its proper direction. With confidence I can say to myself that I am good, intelligent in my own right, creative and in all humility, a wonderful work of art; a masterpiece by the Divine Artist. I owe everything to God! This is a fact that after a long period of living with the wounds, hurts and pains in my life, I have regained back my true self and now I can show the world that indeed, it is possible to be whole again. On one hand, we can deceive ourselves as if we're OKEY but that is only in peripheral. We are all wounded people. The wounding may hurt to the fullest extent but at the end it would be a wonderful experience. We can see ourselves whole again, a wholeness full of faith, hope and love and even sharing this fullness to others.

Now, God is shaping me to become a priest, to be like Him, a Wounded Healer.; to be a healer of souls, an agent of change and restorer of broken lives. Yes, truly I tell you - I am not dumb. I am not worthless. True, I am wounded ... I am broken... but I am loved. And Yes... I will be a wounded healer. I am scarred... but as they say... scarred people are beautiful souls.

Memoirs of a Child’s Life

Memoirs of a Child’s Life

Br. Lennen E. Deciar, SSS

Are you familiar with this song? “All my life, without the doubt I gave you, all my life. Now and forever till the day I die, you and I will share…” Sometimes, we take life for granted. But when life’s wake-up call hits us, it leads us to a significant moment in our lives; a moment which might be far from our imagination and expectation.

Life is full of surprises, isn’t it? Life offers us many avenues to learn. It brings surprises on the crossroads of our journey. But how can we fathom the depth of life? What is it all about? Is it a problem to be solved or a mystery to be lived? I am sure, you have your own series of questions as well.

Let me tell you a short story of a young-boy which I knew way back in my college years at Saint Paul University in Dumaguete City. He was athletic young-boy who loves to play ball games. It is really his passion to play any sports, especially basketball and swimming. But one event in his life had turned into a big discomfort. One morning, he experienced the biggest surprise of his life. It was in an excruciating abdominal pain that became unbearable. “God, please help me! I need you! Please, heal me Lord!” This was the prayer which he devotedly prayed at that terrible moment. The young-boy suffered to the full. He had a high fever, vomited and he had lost his appetite. But thanks be to God his mother lovingly took care of him. She was the source of his strength and his comfort. His mother attended all his needs. But, she couldn’t watch her child suffering. Instantly, they rushed him to the hospital for consultation. And there, they found out that he was positive of appendectomy infection and had to be operated as soon as possible.

Yes! Life is full of surprises, though sometimes it makes you downhearted. The doctor advised the family to have a quick operation the soonest possible time. The young-boy asked the doctor for how much the cost will be of his operation. When he heard about the amount, he was perplexed and nearly lost his hope. He said to his mother, “Mom, it’s alright, you don’t need to worry. I could let go of myself.” And he also told the doctor, “Doc, we don’t have that amount for this emergency, I’m so sorry.”

Life is really precious. God really knows what we need. And the twist of fate had occurred; the young-boy had his second life, a second chance. We can never underestimate the grace of God. Thank you Lord! This young-boy is still alive until today and at this very moment, he is sharing with you one of the most meaningful chapter of his life. Proudly, this young-boy I am referring to is me.

Life is indeed a matter of faith. Just hold on to it, keep it and wait for the miracles to happen. Henri Nouwen in his book entitled “Finding my way Home”, said: “a waiting person is someone who is present to the moment, believing that this moment is the moment.” Life is a precious thing. Take life not by mere chances but an opportunity to find the true meaning of living. This is my life. This is my story. With a peaceful smile on my face, I can humbly say that life is truly a gift – a beautiful gift of God with its stories which are meant to be told and retold, now and hereafter.