tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52257124172678120302024-03-14T12:06:24.522+08:00trust me: i am SINGLEfor CHRISTROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.comBlogger7125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5225712417267812030.post-13292872425458790462012-10-10T16:04:00.002+08:002012-10-10T16:04:57.293+08:00The Gathering<div align="justify">
So I have been lying low in terms of my community service after moving back to Cebu. My community service in Manila through SFC has always been a very pivotal part of my spiritual growth but now, it seems I have belong to nothing.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Thankfully, I am still nourish my spiritual being through personal quiet times with the Lord, lot of inspirational reading, a seasonal attendance to The Feast and weekly event called "The Gathering". </div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
"The Gathering" TG as it suggest is a gathering of Christians united in Jesus name and believe in the Holy Spirit and the glory of God. Irregardless of religious upbringing, we are all trying to be faithful Christians. Everyone is welcome. This is in our workplace, that happens every Thursday lunch break. </div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
I have heard of this while I was still in Manila but had never participated because of my flexible schedule shifting. When I transferred here, it took me quiet few months before joining merely because, I am shy. It was the ever-friendly Val whom for just a short period of time, I became friends with who took me to my first TG. </div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
From then on, I have been a regular attendee. I attended the 1st year anniversary celebration and through the course of time, I have gained new friends and brought new people to TG too. I even have shared in front once and if asked again, I'd still say yes.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Last week, the sharer had us memorizing 4 basic bible verses. They are crucial bible verses, crucial for my faith as Christians. Now this post, with all honesty is to test myself that after 6 days, I'm still able to say those verses and guess what (no copying or pasting happened here) I am still able to say those verses.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
You might as well try memorizing below bible verses and let me know if you've taken them to your heart.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Romans 5:8 But demonstrates His love for us in this, while were still sinners, Christ died for us.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
John 3:16 For God so love the world that he gave us his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but will have eternal life.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
~~~xoxo</div>
ROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5225712417267812030.post-39738959837364974232012-02-24T22:13:00.000+08:002012-02-24T22:13:33.812+08:00GG: Great GOD<div style="text-align: left;">Feb 17 - 19: C.P.Garcia Complex, Tagbilaran Bohol<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was the 19th Singles for Christ ICON (International Conference) attended by 6500 SFC and friends while some 4000 are viewing via live streaming on the internet. As SFC, this event is one thing one is looking forward to every 3rd week of February. <br />
<br />
As for me, I didn't had that much excitement in this ICON plus the fact that I just went through a lot for me to go with my chapter mates but it was God's great plan for me to be there where I needed the most and thanks to the SFC friends who convinced me to go as it was all worth it.<br />
<br />
So let me start my sharing of my experiences while at the conference.<br />
<br />
<b>DAY 1.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Our ship was delayed so we reached Bohol via Cebu oceanjet around 9:30 on Friday evening. The first session of talk had started and in it's middle part already but still we were thankful for we reach there safe and sound. The message was simple as delivered by the speaker Bro. Noli Manuel, God is Great. But the challenge or the reflection question left me a pause for some time and some tears "What makes God great for me?"<br />
<br />
Then all of a sudden, flashbacks from all the recent events of my life up to the time when I started to understand things in childhood. Tears then started to falling down from my eyes, for it felt like I have a long list of the wonders and blessings he showered me compare to the bad times and trials and I can't complain nor question his will. I was just crying while we were worshiping then i noticed the cross that was formed from the shadow of the tent's stand where I was. Truly God has been great and is great and He was there at my most pressing time that I should not fear and worry.<br />
<br />
<b>DAY 2.</b><br />
<br />
I registered in the SFC run early that morning but I had second thought. But God sent me 2 angels (Noel and Jessie) my chapter mates who were running too so I made up my mind and as early as 5am we were at the venue. We had an early morning worship and again, God never fail to let me feel His presence through the songs and through the sunrise. I'm trading my sorrows, I'm trading my pain, Im laying them down for the joy of the Lord.<br />
<br />
We had some few warm up and stretching before we 5K runners head for the starting line and off we go. The 3K runners were started minutes after us. I was just observing my body system as it has been so long ago that I last run. I was listening to a mix of songs from dance to praise songs. Then we I reached the U turn slot of the 3K meaning 1.5K, I started slowing down and felt that I don't have it anymore. So I still continued running but just very small running steps. Then I started walking, jogging, running, jogging and walking until I reached the 2.5K. I said to myself, no I won't give up. So with a smile, my music on and my faith went back running until I reached again that 3K turning point so I had 1.5K to go. Slowly and patiently i helped myself so that I'd reached the finish line. Glad I did.<br />
<br />
In the afternoon, I attended a workshop entitled "God via satellite". Fr. Jboy Gonzales was the speaker but because his ship was also late, we started very late. While waiting, the facilitators started calling out sharers for their experiences so far. There were 2 disable brothers who shared how our great God helped them not lose hope and go on with their lives even with the disability. It humbles me. They humbled me.<br />
<br />
Fr. Jboy was a jolly priest and a great speaker, there was no dull moment. He was like a part of the young generation and the workshop was basically about the social media like you blogspot. :D and how we as SFCs must use this media to share and allow others to experience Christ just like us and that's why I'm doing this post to share that greatness to all of you.<br />
<br />
In the evening, the 2nd session of talk was by Fr. Rap-rap who was the most adored speaker in that ICON I believe. He was very funny but with a sense. His talk was about "There's something about Mary" our mother Blessed Virgin Mary who is beautiful and favored from the beginning. Beauty will save the world. It made me more hold on to Mama Mary whom I take refuge at this point in my life and follow her ways.<br />
<br />
Then, the 3rd session was from Tita Rhea Santos "Mary, me?". This is about how the many things in our life came to a down point at times where we started asking why us. It was like a I was facing a big screen with all the aspects of my life being there at its lowest - the loss of a mother, the brokenheart, the uncertain career path and the growth of my service. Everything for me was at low. I was reflecting with all these tings I'm going through, there she was Mama Mary telling me to come to her for I'll be okay and that she'll lead me to Christ.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
we came to a moment of reflection where we were asked to write all our prayers in a paper, so I let it out. I wrote all the prayers I could think and then we were given candle and asked to drop our prayers in designated boxes and get inside a pre marked areas with our lighted candle. We started our worship songs and then everyone stopped and were looking as the lanterns one by one flew to the skies. <br />
<br />
Everyone was just amazed at how the lanterns go high and far back. Everyone was looking back when the worship leader said "Stop looking back" and everybody immediately look in front. He said, we must stop looking back and start looking at what's in front of us (the projector showing the thousands of us with the lighted candle). The message really struck all of us, it's true we kept holding on the past on what was far back and not on what's coming. Then it was as if God smiled at me telling me that "child, the best is yet to come o brace yourself and stop looking back, move forward".<br />
<br />
<b>DAY 3.<br />
</b>It was a really sunny day. We had our early Sunday mass celebrated by the Archbishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran. He hoped that Bohol had strengthen our faith and it was true. The last talk was by Kuya Shok which was to proclaim the greatness of the Lord and the Magnificat of Mary. Wo-oh-oh-oh Wo-oh-oh-oh wo-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh<br />
<br />
Indeed, God made mission ready again. Ready for the big changes!<br />
<br />
For that May God be praised!!!</div>ROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5225712417267812030.post-30976780814615021752012-01-12T02:57:00.000+08:002012-01-12T02:57:59.847+08:00THREEThe number has been significant and meaningful to me as a Single for Christ. I believe in the Holy Trinity with God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit. That's the foundation in me, my faith.<br />
<br />
It has been 3 years that I graduated from the Christian Life Program that I attended merely for the reason of having something or somewhere I could spend my time if not at work while away from home. It turned out, God brought me where I am to know my second home - the SFC specifically chapter CC1A.<br />
<br />
For the 3 years that past, I have grown as a person and as a Christian. My passion for service has evolved from just a member to one of the leaders. It was bothering at first when some sisters or brothers in the community who are older than me calls me Ate but now I get used to it. Our chapter is serving at the parishes of Nuestra Señora de Gracia in Guadalupe Viejo, Our Lady of Guadalupe National Shrine in Guadalupe Nuevo, Saints Peter and Paul parish in Poblacion Makati and Saint Mary john Vianney in Kalayaan. The concentration so far is at NSDG and trying to build connection in SPP and OLG. <br />
<br />
Many people had come and go in our chapter including Ate Marian and the other people that had to be in CC1E during the split-up. The chapter has grown a lot too. The ideas, the activities and the resources we have are dynamically changing and continuously a work in progress. This 3rd year of mine, our chapter was put to a very difficult year. It was indeed a battle that God knowingly had let us prepare through the ICON in Feb.<br />
<br />
Aside from the chapter which was struggling, I myself was struggling towards the end too. There goes again the feeling of nobody or that I don't belong. Maybe that was just affected by my personal struggles too but then God showed to me and my chapter that He is our Stronghold during the MMC in July. Although I have God and I know He won't forsake me. I've created that detachment in me from the chapter (my second family) because deep inside I'm hurting knowing that someday soon, I'm gonna leave them and no matter what hurt feelings they caused me through out the 3 years, that won't surpass the times they cheered me up, believed in me, trusted me and lean on me. And that just makes me sad leaving what I have in this 3 years.<br />
<br />
Truthfully, I'm very happy God give my way the SFC family I have because they are some not-perfect people but totally true friends I'm going to treasure for life.<br />
<br />
But this is not goodbye! I just wanted to say that for the many places I've been to, many faces I've seen, many stories that inspired me and many struggles that strengthen me, it is one of the best times in my life. Knowing and having that for 3 God years I have this circle of friends, this family I call CC1A, I just want to THANK YOU.<br />
<br />
To the circle of friends: (they know who they are) thank you for standing by me through the good and the bad times in my 3 SFC years.ROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5225712417267812030.post-33569311453545724322011-07-26T04:33:00.000+08:002011-07-26T04:33:29.991+08:00MMC 2011: StrongholdMMC or the CFC-Singles for Christ Metro Manila Conference is a yearly event attended by most of the SFCs in the Metro consisting SFCs from Quezon City to Pasay, from Rizal to Manila. It is being held every July in different places in Luzon but outside metro Manila.<br />
<br />
I am an SFC from Guadalupe Makati and this year was my 3rd MMC. Two years ago was in Baguio and last year was in Tagaytay. This year, it was held in the province of Pangasinan specifically Dagupan City (CSI stadia).<br />
<br />
I wasnt able to join my chapter mates in going to the venue early Friday (July 15) morning as I was still on shift, doing straight 2 shifts just to be able to attend the event. I dunno, there's a different feeling I get when I attend events like this. It's like refreshing, revitalizing and renewing.<br />
<br />
Luckily, I was not to travel alone as some friends also opt to travel in the afternoon. We started our trip past 3 in the afternoon. Af first, I was still trying to really get a sleep because I need it but sleep was very elusive that my eyes keeps wandering on every things they see on the road. There were 3 stopovers making the trip longer. After, the 2nd stopover I finally was able to sleep (of course, not a deep one). The trip took approximately 7 hours.<br />
<br />
When we reached the venue, we were reunited with the whole delegation of our chapter and was able to witnessed GLorEE (like the famous TV show GLEE but of course the SFC version). It was nice! SFCs really are talented. We had some photo ops before finally hiring a jeep to our accomodation. I fell asleep in the jeepney ride to the lodging house as it was about 15-min ride. When I felt the jeep had halted, I looked around and saw a classy establishment/hotel (Luxor hotel in Arellano St. dagupan City). I thought that's where we were staying but I thought wrong. hahaha<br />
<br />
We were housed in the adjacent inn (Nel-Ars Traveller's Inn). It's affordable for around 150 per night. It wasnt as elegant as the opposite hotel but that was what we could afford. The beddings are clean and there is an airconditioner in the room. Every room has 2 occupants but could accomodate 3 to 4 people. It was okay except for the CR that dont flush well. Anyways, it was manageable. And so i got a real sleep.<br />
<br />
Day 2. July 16, 2011 is workshop and talk day. We went back to the venue 7am to claim our breakfast (it's part of the registration fee of the conference which by the wayis 900 for the early birds like and 1100 for not). The food was care of Jam Sweet Jam of Dagupan, and I highly recommend their food. All were delicious, one of the amazing things in the conference. Sadly, they only have one branch and that is the one in Dagupan :( .<br />
<br />
Then we have our first session talk by Kuya Aids (Adrian a CFC full time worker). His talk was about how we are wounded, tired and weary of the battle we have after the ICON 2011 and that we are there to rest, to have our Stronghold. The second Session was about Grace as told by Ate Rhea Santos. This session was so full and heavy as she told us her life story and that every thing, trial problem or blessing that we responded, that's grace. In the afternoon, we proceed to our workshops, mine was "Grace ubder Pressure". Our speaker was Kuya Voltaire. For me, he is an ideal father and it was nice listening to him. After the workshop, I realized I was under deep stress and pressure physically that I really need to go back to running.<br />
<br />
In the evening, we had mass and then our dinner. The 3rd talk was from Fr Francis of the CBCP. That was light, I mean his talk was just full of laughter at the same time learning. His talk is actually embracing God, Jesus as our stronghold of grace. All the opening workshops and praisefests really were powerful to the nth power. Two new songs were taught "All for You" and "God of All Grace" and I really like them.<br />
<br />
Day 3: We were instructed to be at the venue at 5am. day started with a worship and then Kuya Rob started talk 4 about Moments of Grace. We clained our breakfast but not to eat them yet. Then Kua Rob instructed u sto go to our household and share our moments of grace at breakfast. It was really happy experience for me to see my new household members in circle being in MMC for the first time and the discussion was happy, we were graced.<br />
<br />
We had our mass after the sharing and then kuya Rob continued the talk to wrap it up with us praying over the sector and cluster heads and full time workers and lastly our chapter heads. Then we have the most powerful worship where I really cried out and cried out I did when the song "to the Cross" was being sang. It's like I was really embraced and that all sorrows, disappointment and hurt in me was released. Amazing!<br />
<br />
In the afternoon, we payed for an afternoon tour just to be able to see the places in the province and we're glad we did. We went to the Capitol Building in Lingayen and able to get inside the Governor's office, had a look from afar on the 100 islands from the rooftop of the capitol building. Then visited the Sison auditorium, it was world class for me. The chandelier was extravagant, the CR's inviting and of course the guard, British English speaking. I forgot his name but when I remember it, I'll update it here. He was really amazing though, as in great diction. Trivia, the auditorium was supposedly our venue for MMC nut due to the huge number of delegates for aroung 3k while the auditorium can only accomodate 1500 - 2000 people. Nonetheless, CSI Stadia was a good venue too. <br />
<br />
We were also able to buy some bagoong and alamang and some treats for pasalubong at the Malong building still at the capitol grounds. We were able to visit FVR's (ex president Fidel V Ramos) museum. That was their old house,it was simple but beautiful. Then we have a River cruise in the rivers of Dagupan. It's similar to Loboc River cruise as the concept itself was taken there. But the project has just started yet so no floating restaurants yet just the cruise on th boat and it was around 45 mins.<br />
<br />
Then finally, back to Manila. til next time.<br />
<br />
x.o.x.o rosehyacinthROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5225712417267812030.post-62403669744794474532010-06-28T02:18:00.000+08:002010-06-28T02:18:11.073+08:00The Vulnerability of HumanTo belong in a community of the children of God where people are followers of Christ, for me is a BLESSING. They are the same people that you'll treat as family especially when you're away from home. They are the one that will pray for you at your ecstatic and down moments. They will serve as your immediate Circle of Friends.<br />
<br />
<br />
Yes, I am blessed to be in the community of SFC and I'm thankful I found this community or I was found by this community. For the long time I've been away from home, they are my home away from home. In the community, I found not just friends but genuine friends that I know I'll treasure for life. In the community, I found belongingness. But it isn't always like that...<br />
<br />
<br />
There was a time as well that I felt I don't belong. It wasn't because I was outcasted but more of because I outcasted myself. Human as I am, there were those unexplainable moments where I feel like I dont belong. Gladly, they were there to affirm that I do belong.<br />
<br />
<br />
However, recently this community I am proud of, was tested. It was shaken. Conflicts arises. Conflicts caused by individual differences that led to insensitiveness to misunderstanding to coldness. It was sad. It is sad. We are stuggling, trying to fix the differences for the greater good and GLORY. Nobody is to blame but everybody has to take charge.<br />
<br />
<br />
I think it has been human nature to express his utmost thoughts, opinions and principles on some aspects and the fact that each human being is unique makes all expressed thoughts, opinions or principles vary from one to the other. And when all thoughts are expressed, there is that comparison and inevitably the differences will most likely prevail. It is what is happening now. There are a lots of thoughts. I see, all are good and I can't tell which is the greater good. The most probable solution is that each one must compromise. Indeed, COMPROMISE is a big word.<br />
<br />
<br />
As a community of God, I know and I can see everyone is trying to compromise. But the oppression of the reality of individual differences barred or is barring as now. I believe this is just a trial for this beautiful community and I'm hoping and praying to God that as His community, we all will leave behind the vulnerability of our being human and embrace the will of God.<br />
<br />
<br />
So Help us God.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
x.o.x.o<br />
<br />
ROseHYAcinthROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5225712417267812030.post-70720858105543006742010-04-19T14:32:00.000+08:002010-06-28T01:31:35.145+08:00Champion: Run For Who<strong>No pain, no GLORY!</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
Yesterday, I attended our SFC Singolympics 2010 in Marikina Sports Park. I had an event as I volunteered myself in the 100-m dash in the track and field. I placed second in the race but it made me feel a CHAMPION not because of the win but because of the great message I obtain from it. So here is what happened:<br />
<br />
<br />
When our chapter head asked for players who would want to play in the mini olympics, I responded and volunteered myself even though I know that on the same day prior to the olympics, I'll be running 5 kilometers for Earthrun 2010, a run for the benefit of Greenpeace (environmental group.) The 100-m run for the olympics felt like a call from above. It's like God was telling me, "run for ME".<br />
<br />
Recently, I have developed this passion in running and everytime I run, there is that fulfillment. I had already run for 3 causes including the latest earthrun. This has been the one thing I've been praying for at times when I felt I'm nowhere and nobody and no one. This is what God give me to keep me going in life and I felt so thankful for this passion. So when God called me to run for HIM, no second thought, I said YES LORD.<br />
<br />
Before the events, I kept asking myself, "could I do this?", "Could my body, strength handle this?", "Should I gave up earthrun"?. The answer given to me was YES, YES and NO. So I push through earthrun and ran my 5-K in about 38 minutes then I proceed to our olympics.<br />
<br />
While I was going to the venue, I already felt my legs hurting a bit (muscle pains) as I had ran Friday night before Earthrun as well, just to practice and condition myself. I talked to God, "Your will be done". Then out of nowhere I just asked HIM, "Lord, second?". Then minute later it drizzled, I thought to myself maybe they are praying in the venue now and the little drizzles were just blessings. Little did I know, those little drizzles as well was God's answer to my petition.<br />
<br />
Came my running event, I was the only runner for Central C as the other one from other chapter was sick and it was not allowed anymore to add players who were not pre-listed. The set-up was that, there are 2 sets per running category. First set is composed of 6 sectors and the other, 6 as well. The top three of each set would compete in a final run to determine the winners. I belonged to the second set. The first set, there were 4 runners while in my set, we are only 2. Since all in all we were only 6 in that category, I thought they would only get the best times and ranked and no need for a final run. In my set, was me and a boyish girl. She finished first with 17.25 seconds while I get 18.10 seconds. It was fulfilling for me as well even though I havent outplayed her cause I run it my best. It was really like my RUN FOR HIM. That 18.10 seconds was like a short but everlasting moment with HIM.<br />
<br />
The other running events continued, while I am gaining new friends from other sectors as well. That was what the event was all about, camaraderie, new friendships and friendly games. My company of friends from my chapter decided to eat lunch as it was almost 1:00 in the afternoon already. I have told them to go ahead and I'll follow. I was having my time mingling with other runners too. We were told so stay put as we'll still be having the final run. Supposedly, in 100-m dash, we should be 5 as top 3 from 1st set and the 2 of us in the second set but someone didnt show up so we were four in the final run. Just what I have asked, I placed 2nd.<br />
<br />
When the track and field winners were awarded, I was not there so I urged ate Froz that we should ask for it. I want to have that medal for the chapter. I was actually asking Him to make me even just the 2nd place to give honor to my brothers and sisters in the community specifically my chapter. I asked HIM (second place) to give honor to my friends who are supporting me in one way or the other. The awards committee said that there were no unclaimed medals for track and field so I was sad because for me, that was what I could share to my friends, my brothers and sisters in the chapter. I insisted on asking the coordinator of the sector, it could be that a representative has got it.<br />
<br />
But it wasnt, what happened was, the results given showed I was not the 2nd and was the last. It broke my heart. My time was interchanged with other runner. I know and He knows. No need to protest. I said, "it was fine" so that it wouldnt bother the organizers anymore. It was just sad because that could have been the tangible proof of my RUN FOR HIM and I could have share the triumph to my friends. I have not avoided my shallow tears so I really shed tears at first specially when my friends were hugging me and consoling me. It was sad. <br />
<br />
While we were hearing the holy mass, the priest mentioned about communication to loveones. He asked, "Kinakausap nyo ba ang mga boyfiends and girlfriends nyo?". He said "Dapat lang kasi kaya mo sila kinakausap kasi mahal mo", "diba kapag ang kinakausap mo ay di sumasagot, nakakalungkot?". Then it came to me His message "that is fine, you dont need the medal to share to your friends.". I was struck at a moment and think. Yes, it was my RUN FOR HIM and He saw me. I asked HIM second and He gave me that. It was between us. There is no need of a tangible proof to His glory. All I have to see was HIS affirmation and confirmation of love for me because HE is talking to me and is responding to me because HE loves me. The drizzle, the missing medal and the 2nd place were just HIS simple manifestations that WE have a deep relationship of love.<br />
<br />
He said to me during the praisefest, "You asked 2nd place and I gave you that but for ME you are a champion, MY CHAMPION". I saw HIS GLORY and HIS awesome POWER. I was strucked even more. I have asked for 2nd place because He should be the first. I don't need to share the triumph anymore, all I needed is to share HIS GLORY. His GREAT LOVE.<br />
<br />
<br />
x.o.x.o<br />
ROseHYAcinthROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5225712417267812030.post-52578707466539041602010-03-18T04:19:00.000+08:002010-03-18T04:19:50.496+08:00New Perspective: LIVEWohooo. What a way to start this post? Well, Wohooo is really the word for as a Saggitarius, I have travelled to a new place again, that means my PLACES-TO-GO-THIS-LIFETIME list has been slashed out one out of....more or less...several places. This time I conquered DAVAO. It was my first time to be in the Mindanao region and indeed indeed, it was ONE GREAT EXPERIENCE.<br />
<br />
By the way, I wasn't there just simply for a trip. I was there for the 17th Sinlges for Christ International Conference (ICON) or International Leaders Conference. Proud to be SFC.<br />
<br />
<br />
February 18, 2010: Sunny Thursday it is.<br />
<br />
<i>Our chapter (Makati - CC1A) has 25 delegates including of course our dear chapter head and full time worker who is part of the organizers of the Pre-ICON and ICON. Almost everyone were in Davao already as they went Feb 17 and to my envy (they went to SAMAL island). Well, everything happens for a reason as I always say to myself. My flight was 4:55 in the afternoon via Cebu Pacific. Ticket bought as a promo and cost me about 1.3K pesos. The explaination by the way of why I was behind was because, I still have to work on the night of 17th being a night shifter. I was even planning to not sleep at all after work on Thursday morning in fear of missing my flight but God is good. He allowed me to sleep about 2 hrs and let my housemates who (lucky for me) were offshift that morning, wake me up.So by God's grace I was able to make it to my flight with no problems and reached Davao at around 6:30 PM. My first set-foot in Davao. It felt good. First observations: The moon that night was in perfect crescent shape. The airport isn't that big compare to Manila's or even Cebu's for the matter but Davao's is way cleaner, not just the airport but the city itself. What was more greater feeling is when I heard locals speaking dialect. Wohooo, felt just like home. Being with the group at last, 21 of us for there are still </i>3 <i>who were on later flights than I. We had dinner at Penong's Resto, famous for their chicken inasal and unlimited rice. Plus we had cake as our birthday surprise to one of our brothers who is celebrating his big day that day and turned out that he treated us all that dinner. Ain't it good? As they say "the best things in life are free". hehehe. God is good for giving us a place to stay; Bro. Vic's place. While I, still having not enough sleep, slept at 1Am and woke up 4AM. (wakwak mode). Well, part of the restlessness is the excitement to conquer durian, to explore davao and all the wonderful things in it. One more thing, the air was fresh, so fresh plus the water was refreshing. EOD</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
Feb 19, 2010 (Friday, sunny still) <i><br />
</i><br />
<br />
<i>As I mentioned earlier, I woke up at early 4 AM. I had pandesal, puto cheese, rice, boiled egg, fried bangus for breakfast. Super breakfast it is for the first Friday of the lenten season. Well, I was planning not to eat lunch anyway. To my disappointment, from 4 AM, we had to start our exploration late 9AM already. Kinda just idle for 5 hours and talking to stuff toys. hahaha coz i can't sleep (sisa mode). At long last we departed from the house past 9 AM, all aboard to coby (Vic's multicab/jeep) and met up with the others who stayed at Bro Choco's place. We were 2 vehicles, one was a revo or some kinda like that and the other was KOBE where I with 12 other girls and Vic (driving) where boarded. Our first stop for the day, the famous Davao's Eden Nature Park up and up to the mountains where Mt Apo (tallest mountain in the Phils) could be seen as well.</i><br />
<br />
<i>While on the road, I really enjoyed the sceneries. Being a travel-lover, that is for me, a therapy, too see beautiful things while moving. Away from the city, far away from the conjested places where all you'll feel is nature. Halfway to our destination, we track on a road that was a steep slope. KOBE had hard time, we were left behind by the other vehicle. But we made it, KOBE made it on top, that's when Bro. Vic, heard something squeaking. On the instance, he managed to bring Kobe to the side and we stopped. I, being on the back of the driver's seat, immediately felt something wrong at that time. We stopped 1 minute, Vic, asked the one seating on the passenger's seat to get a stone (stopper) "bangil" in the dialect. Just right after, she had stepped out of the vehicle, our vehicle abruptly is moving backwards. We were going down. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>My mind at that few minutes of turbulence had flown so far away. My family, my mother, my dreams, our dreams, my promise, my life, my sadness, my triumphs. All flashback in that very short moment and then, I surrendered. I did surrender to HIM. Thy will be done. When I opened my eyes and realized our situation isnt getting better that we might go directly down the cliff, of hit another vehicle, or Kobe would flip over, roll over and we, trapped inside the helpless Kobe, I saw, the only girl who was not on the vehicle, also running towards us, seemingly helpless too, I wanted to shout to her "tell my mother I love her". </i><br />
<br />
<i>It was all sudden, the other girls are already shouting but so mysterious that no one really panicked so much. It was great, our driver didnt leave us behind. He manuever the vehicle that from tha right side of the lane, while Kobe was going down, he tried to steer the wheel in a way that we reached the other side of the road and eventually hit something that made us stop. How great is our GOD? Really great, that He wouldnt allow us to be not present in the ICON. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>Realizing, we have come into a stop. Everyone, get off the vehicle. Kobe, was tilted just enough that it didnt flip over. Nobody was harm. Only Kobe's side mirror and late on we foud out that it's his cross joint that broke off that's why we had no back brake. The other thing that was harmed was that thing that made us stop. Amazing, it was amazing that it took a single banana tree and some died ones that cushion our stop. We could have hit the big stones there or the bigger and harder trees but we hit the soft banana tree. Simply amazing, how the ways of God works. It was a strengthening of faith. I for one, had realized BIG in that life changing experince. God still has greater plan for me and for all of us.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>Manong Mariano Sumaya was the owner of the banana tree, he was the one who helped elevate the tilted side of the jeep as gasoline started leaking. He even accomodated us to his humble house and offered "bahalina". Such a great experience to be in good hands. From our driver to Manong Mariano to the uncles of Bro Vic who repaired Kobe. The other vehicle was back and some of us headed to Eden while 7 including Vic, me and 5 other sisters chose to be left. Those of us left at the incident site while waiting for Kobe's successful operation happily ate banana. Such a wonderful new life. Indeed.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>And Kobe was healed after the successful 3-hr operation. So off we proceed to our long awaited destination when all of a sudden, smoke in the vehicle. (moment of thinking, not meant to be where we are going? trials on the road?). Kobe was overheat. Hayyy, it was manageable, after Kobe drank plenty of water we hit the road again with much greater anticipation of what will we see in our destination. Finally, we arrived at Eden nature's park. Indeed, the view was heavenly. I blurted, the road to heaven is not easy, there will be bumps, stops, obstacles but reaching heaven is worth it. It was indeed an overly amazing experience.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<u>SFCICON: First night <b>(1st session of talk)</b></u><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>The praisefest was like a celebration of the new life. Persecuted but not abandoned were the words of the song that struck me. Yes, i might be persecuted but I was never abandoned. I felt God's warm hugged to me that night, I felt how He wrapped me in His arms and while singing I Give My All, I was tearful. Take me as I am. I am Yours oh God, Lead me to Your arms and I give You praise. I rejoice in You 'til the end of my days I give my all.</i><br />
<br />
<i>It was a feast. Being in a crown united in one Christ. Feasting in the bounty of life. FEAST - .<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">God calls us for His purpose. We were created by God and for God. We can never be too good or too worse for Him. Everyday, there is a reason to feast. Because everyday God loves us more deeply. That love is more than enough ad is never fading. To end the night, Joey Ayala sang his original songs. I knew him of the song Magkaugnay and coincidentally that night he sang "saging" (Banana), and we heartily jammed with him and HIM. Round of Applause.</span></span></span></i><br />
<br />
<i></i><br />
<i></i><br />
<br />
<br />
February 20, 2010: Sunny Saturday.(Workshops day)<br />
<br />
<i>Even with very few hours of sleep, still I woke up early to compromise to the toilet situation as there are may people who'll be using the bathroom. Well of course, I am an early riser usually. (segway). Today is our workshops day. I have 1 in the morning that's 9-12 and another in the afternoon 1-4. I am excited to learn more, to listen and of course to encounter God again. My first workshop is entitled "The Blueprint of Your Purpose". The speaker Fr. Xavier, a very good speaker, I've known him already from the Metro manila Conference in Baguio, July 2009 and also, he is usually present in our Sector Assembly. I was happy, for I know Fr. Xavier would really impart a lot. </i><br />
<br />
The Blueprint of our Purpose: is simply summarized into this phrase<i> <b>"His way not <strike>my</strike> way."</b></i><br />
<br />
<i>The afternoon workshop was entitled "The Best 3 Hours". It was all about household. Household is the term we use in community for the group that basically is like a family. The talked is really how God has loved as as His household and that we should do the same. The speaker, I forgot his name (Tito Oscar). He is a surgeon and a magician. He was a great speaker as well.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
The Best 3 Hours is to say <i><b>"I love my household".</b></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<u>SFCICON: 2nd night <b>(2nd and 3rd session of talk)</b></u><br />
<br />
<i>The Fool and the Full was given by an SFC Missionary MK Guano or as we fondly call her during our bootcamp as </i><i><b>Mahiyaing</b> MK. The session was presented like a mini-talk show entiltled "Let's Talk". It showcased the different kinds of life of SFC member who once been living as fools. I came to think as well the difference between being <b>fool</b> (with all the material things) and being <b>full</b></i> <i>(believing that God is enough for me). Because, human as we are, we are vulnerable to temptations but God through His son JesusChrist is giving as the chance to redeem ourselves. How great is our God?</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>Fighting for the Fullness of Life. Bro. Nestle Jeturian speaks about how to fight for the fullness of life. The temptations I mentioned above, yes, sometimes they are too much to bear that at times we fall for it. I for one, am a sinner. But being one with God, we should fight for the fullness in life and that is to be like Christ, follow His ways. Nothing else will ever be.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i><b>Again being full is to say "God is enough for me".</b></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
February 21, 2010: Super Sunny Sunday.(last day)<br />
<br />
<i>Woke up early again and excited to buy some things called "pasalubong". hahahahha</i>. <i>After the roam around, we settled for the early Sunday morning mass. The priest presider was Fr. Xavier. Here goes his homily:</i><br />
<br />
“We see Jesus mingling with sinners, prostitutes & tax collectors. In the gospel, Jesus comes and approaches Levi, who was busy counting coins, earning his livelihood. Just as Jesus came and called Levi, Jesus comes and calls us. However, do we welcome the interruption? Many times we hate to be interrupted from our routine, our work, our comforts, but zooming in the scene for today’s gospel, we see that <b>we need interruptions</b>. We are gathered this weekend interrupting our busy lives even taking leave from work. We see that we need and are thankful for these interruptions. Levi, the tax collector, allows and welcomes Jesus’ interruption. He is never the same again. When he responded to Jesus’ interruption he was shown a much <b>bigger world</b>. The gospel teaches us not to be afraid of <b>INTERRUPTIONS</b> and not to hate the “<b>interruptors</b>” who lead us to <b>stop and pause</b> from our busy lives. It is meaningful that we come together to <b>STOP</b> from the things we’ve become so familiar with. Let us spend this time to examine our habits, our lifestyles…our lives. The Lord always calls us to collect and gather. <b>To gather people and help people gather others</b>.<b>” Jesus is here and He calls, “FOLLOW ME.”</b>”<i> </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<i>While mass was going on, the sun is at its peak. It was indeed a very hot day. After the mass was the morning worship under the heat of the sun. It was worth it.</i><i> It was indeed. </i><i></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The message was simple but the challenge is great: to let every single man and woman in the world experience CHRIST. Live life to the fullness in Christ. <span style="font-size: small;">Colossians 2:6-7</span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: small;">"</span><span style="font-size: small;">Since you have accepted Christ Jesus as Lord, live in union with him, build your lives on him, and become stronger in faith, as you were taught. And be filled with thanksgiving". </span></i><span style="font-size: small;"></span>ROse HYAcinthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08999613658202760597noreply@blogger.com0