Saturday, March 29, 2008

My Roller Coaster Life

Mom’s not feeling well and she’s on and off with her doctors (nephro, pulmo, cardio, derma). She’s having complicated side effects due to many drugs that her skin is now affected. She always complains of headache, hardness of breathing, itchiness, and many other different muscle pains. Doctors are sort of giving up for her bodily movements say otherwise. I think it’s safe to say it’s the devil only.

It’s honestly breaking my heart to see her that way. She travels 5 hours just to go to Davao for her doctors and then another 5 hours to return home. Her body definitely needs rest but unfortunately, she’s not content with the South Cotabato doctors. I try my best in consoling her and I limit her negative emotional feelings as much as I can. One of her greatest anxieties, though, is her continuous argument with Dad.

I’ve been pleading to God and the Blessed Virgin to heal her but only when she’s fully converted to Catholic Tradition. I thought of changing my intention but then again, I know it is the right intention. I’ve had enough of battling with the loneliness that Mom creates and I’m really getting exhausted. Hope I’d be able to overcome this and help my siblings think the right way. That it is trying times once again but the need to hold on. This is still God’s will.

Oh Blessed Virgin, my Mother, comfort Mom and please let her realize her mistake. May it never be too late for repentance and please do not make her an obstinate sinner. Oh Most Pure Lady, keep me spotless from this world despite every uphill of my miseries here on earth! Amen.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Getting To Appreciate Things

Recently, my family switched from reading PDI newspaper to Philippine Star newspaper. Actually, I couldn’t just imagine on what good I would ever get to read from there. It’s so dull plus a bit clichéd. And unlike the PDI, I hardly know their writers and editors. I was still skeptical about it when Mom brought another one last week.

So, I skimped through the papers and found their usual unattractive style. I thought of reading some articles with interesting titles until I glimpsed the caption: “What would Jesus do?”. At first sight, one thing that crossed my mind is that the author is Protestant as the illustration on his article portrayed a laughing Christ with an apple and a book under it on His hand. Well, the picture had an impression of a Protestant look and so I decided to read it last. His views might probably be anti- Catholic.

I finally came there and as I read on the few paragraphs, I realized I was mistaken. He is a Catholic. Comforted to know that, I read it with great enthusiasm. He was talking about patience and even more patience. That on every negative thing he happened to face, he’d ask himself: What would Jesus do in my position?

It was a good thing that there’s still a Catholic who still think the right thinking. And that he’s not ashamed to write about it publicly in an almost godless newspaper.

Anyway, Lent is coming already and we need to practice mortification and patience. Time to accept more humiliation with discretion. It’s really a good exercise for each and everyone to ponder this: If our Lord Jesus Christ Whose spotless was beaten and insulted with so much hatred and yet patiently accepted it, how much more should I - a poor wretched sinner - not accept it with a resigned heart? God knows everything and sees that it’s better for us to have this or that kind of trials.

Last Sunday’s epistle ended with: My grace is sufficient for thee: for power is perfected in weakness. Gladly, therefore, will I glory in mine infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me.

Indeed, He would never leave us provided that we ask His guidance through the loving intercession of our Blessed Virgin Mary.

Monday, December 31, 2007

Christmas Carol

It may be late for yuletide caroling but yesterday night, the Apostles of Mary (a traditionalist Catholic youth group founded by the SSPX exclusively for the youths in the Philippines) came to do carols. The intention was to raise funds for their coming formation sessions next year in Bohol. I personally dislike that kind of activity. I’d rather attend many Ignatian retreats and get a lot of inspirations and strong spirituality formation there than spend it on those formation sessions. But then, people’s metabolism is not always the same. Some would be inspired through constant activities while some are inspired through meditations and sermons. That’s me on the latter while I guess the majority of people falls on the first definition. And perhaps, that’s what the Apostles are catering.

Anyways, when they arrived, I found out they’re still numbering in 8. Yup, this isn’t their first time but their 2nd already. Most of them aren’t from the group but they decided to come along to help cheering the voices up. 6 were young men including the Captain of the Koronodal’s San Miguel Clan while 3 were girls who’re still aspirants for the group, I guess.

I truly appreciate their voices. It was melodious and all together coordinated. It’s as if they did a lot of rehearsing which climaxed in our home. I love most especially when they sang Latin ones but most especially the Ave Maria. Oh my, my heart was leaping for joy as I was hearing that. I couldn’t imagine that they (who’re simple and plain) can, by now, compete with those in the orchestra. The girls weren’t reading anything but they confidently know what they’re voices would be singing when the men sang other parts of the Ave. Simply put, I was thoroughly amazed for the new outlook of the Apostles. They are much more pious. I think credits must go partly to their new chaplain, Fr. Dolotina (himself a former Apostles and now enjoying his 2nd year in the priesthood).

After the singing, they took some photos with their gifts (Mom gave them some snacks). I could see that they’re feeling happy (with their smiling faces) but they just couldn’t express it on words perhaps because of the conflict recently or shyness too. Then Mom gave the money.

But then again, I hear my siblings blaming me (directly or indirectly) for the added expenses. It’s so painful but I learned to accept it with a glad heart already. I denied my emotions and acted as if every insult is passing from one ear to the other.

Now that this is the last day of the year, I wish everyone a meaningful New Year most especially my Dad. I love you, Dad, and wherever you are, may you find God in your heart and peace and happiness still.

As 2008 enters, I’d be more loyal to my New Year’s Resolution and continue hoping that God and the Blessed Virgin would guide my whole life.

Friday, December 28, 2007

Struggling Into Pieces

Today’s the 4th day of Christmas. Finally, I was able to make it here after more than a month long absence. I honestly love to write here many things about my life but my duties and prayers are always taking most of my time. Add here the season of Christmas - this truly makes a busier and frenzied day for my family.

Holidays are joyful. Yes, that’s the famous saying of Christmas. This Christmas, I’d say things went well. For the first time ever, the weather was sweet (that is, cold) here in Mindanao. It was that weather I’ve been longing for as I was accustomed from my beloved Luzon. We went to the Novus Ordo Cathedral to pay a visit then when evening came, we went to the governor’s office and strolled to see the grandest lights beautifully arrayed there. Aside from our home, it was so magnificent and comparable to Manila based wonder lights there. I could really feel the spirit of Christmas. Indeed, I never had that radiant Christmas experience for quite a long time now.

But things aren’t always merry. Dad isn’t home and my family got mad to me 4 days before Christmas. It was because I decided to receive the Sacraments without their knowing about it. I intentionally did it for I perfectly know they would forbid me. Well, the result was a bit intriguing. The visiting priest corrected me and that I should apologize to Mom. I did on that very night but I guess it’s not enough so I decided to give her a letter this day. I don’t know what she’d feel about it but I’m hoping that she’ll understand. In that letter, I tried explaining in a humblest way my desires and shortcomings too. I told her how much she means to me and I ended in: I love you, Mom, and will forever be! By the way, Mom is in Davao right now doing her medical check up routine.

I’m very much glad that I was able to receive our Lord this month. I’m happier than ever and much apt in suffering gladly. The pains and insults are nothing when I know God is abiding in me. That’s enough to comfort me even if there’s no one in my family who shares the same belief.

Also, I’m thankful that everything went well this Christmas despite the chaos. I’ve been pleading in tears to God that it wouldn’t be spoiled and He granted it. But deep inside, I’m still getting hurt day after day. I couldn’t perfectly understand why God wants me to suffer these awful consequences. I feel like being thrown in the dirt whenever I hear false accusations against me that I sometimes burst into tears in prayer. Still, I’m holding on. I try giving my best in my work no matter how drained I feel due to emotions. I know I’m not mocked much more than my crucified Savior. Perhaps, I just deserve this kind of life. I’m not going to be bitter about it but rather be positive and accepting it gladly and patiently.

It was all by Divine Providence that I was able to make it for He knows I truly do not want to pass this year without receiving Him. I was trembling for I didn’t know if I’d make it after all my 2 sisters saw me. But God willed that they didn’t seem to be bothered about my departure. Despite all odds from my family - my eldest sister shouting at me on the phone; my eldest brother insisting that I immediately return home; and worst, my mother calling me names - I managed to remain firm in my decision. I told them politely that I’m not coming home without receiving the Sacraments which the priest gave me his full consent.

So now, I’ll try to be as close to God as possible. Now that I have him, I’ll try not to lose Him by any mortal/venial sins. I’ll make it sure to be more aware of displeasing Him. I’ll try not to deprive Him of love. In praying and constant meditation, I guess I shall be successful on my goal.

Oh Lord my God, keep me always near Thy Heart. Never permit me to be far away again! Oh my Blessed Mother, thou who never left me even to my darkest moments, help me to fulfill this even more perfectly this time around! Amen.

Monday, November 19, 2007

In My Life

The days and hours seem to be running. I just can’t believe it’s been 18 days since my last blog here. Time flies so fast for me that I could barely beat it. Sigh.

Don’t get me wrong. I don’t misused or misspent my time. Time is valuable and I’m not crazy to abuse it. It’s just that I need to be unselfish. And when writing here, it demands more ample time. Yes, that is exactly the kind of time I’ve been missing frequently.

Anyway, let me start this. Just recently, I noticed some flakes on my hair when combing after bathing. I realized it’s dry scalp and although it’s not itchy, I find it alarming already. And so I decided using my sister’s shampoo. I was somewhat boycotting it before for I don’t really like its smell. It looks like a medicine to me for its components are sort of that. It was actually my sister who suggested I use it but she also advised that I must have a regular diet. Meaning, I must try eating during lunchtime. Well, that seems pretty easy to anyone but not for me! I’m still squeezing lunch in my day. Thanks to my sister’s shampoo anyway. I’m relived and it’s very effective. It lessened gradually within 3 days, I guess. But still, I opt using it regularly. I’ve also become accustomed to its fragrance as well. I mean who knows? It might eventually stop without totally readjusting my schedule!

These days, our neighborhood is on again with loud speakers of music. It’s becoming their usual already and those songs they’re playing are just yelling nonsense. I just can’t comprehend what so good about it. They seem to be deaf already on how to recognize a good song from a bad one. Well, my mother is getting agitated about it and it really saddens me. She doesn’t seem to get used to them. Maybe because it was she who came here. Nobody forced her. But then, this is only my assumption. As for me, I was able to adapt. Thanks be to God and the Blessed Virgin, I can normally sleep without much hardships at night. But what makes me sad though, is that due to it, many bad consequences arise. And even her frail health is unfortunately increasing. I’ve learned that next month they’d have a fiesta of the subdivision. Oh gee, that sounds bad and I’d be putting pillows on my ears so as to get sleep if ever. Because this disco is a lot more louder, continues up till midnight, and it really disturbs the ear you really can’t fall asleep unless you drink sleeping pills. Though last year wasn’t that bad and I could only hope it’d still remain that way. My, these people have a different culture. A pagan one, should I say. For in Luzon, people aren’t like these. Why? Probably it is because of the Catholic Church here. The Catholics are not morally religious. Catholic faith is so loose in Mindanao. It is all because of false ecumenism wherein priests don’t teach the flock and don’t mind them mingling with other religion - Protestants and Muslims alike. Sure there’s nothing bad talking to them but what these faithful don’t know their faith is indirectly being pushed back. I’ve found out too, that Protestants are big here. Only few are Catholics and are, unfortunately, spiritually blind.

About myself, I’m doing fine though not satisfied. Every now and then, I feel something is lacking on me. My nearness to God. Actually, I don’t even know on to what amount of degree I must be near to Him. All I honestly want is to love Him wholeheartedly and if possible to be a nun. I’m not so sure about it but one priest recently advised me to entrust myself to our Blessed Lady. And that is exactly what I’ve been doing for almost a year now after reading the True Devotion to Our Lady by St. Louis de Montfort.

Oh Mother of Divine Providence, help me to understand what God really wants from me. Enlighten those priests whom I have chosen to confide my life. As they are nearest to God on earth, I ask that thou grant them wisdom to discern what is truly God’s will for me. And most especially, sanctify them that they may have the strength and courage to battle whatever evil beset them. Amen.

Thursday, November 01, 2007

All Saints’ Day

Lately, I’ve been linking this particular day to the SSPX. True enough, as it was the solemn day that Archbishop Lefebvre founded the SSPX 37 years ago. I was wondering why the Archbishop chose this particular date. Now, I realized it was perhaps because His Excellency wanted to show to each and everyone, most especially to his own priests, that all of us must become Saints. Striving to become saints is our duty and rather the only duty we have here on earth. I understood that it is what the Archbishop wanted to imply to all.

I’m grateful to him and for what he had done. He was fighting and yet he was loving as well. He mandated to his priests the vital importance of the Sacrifice of the Mass and the other 6 Sacraments which our Lord instituted. We cannot live without God. Charity and sufferings are nothing if we do not have grace of God abiding in us. And how do we get that grace? Through the Holy Sacrifice of Mass and Sacrament of Penance. Yes, His Excellency stated it plain and simple yet the sophisticated world could not comprehend it. In his own little way, Archbishop Lefebvre scattered this beautiful message. He stood amidst shaking tribulations and formed his priests. Providentially, it grew and still expanding.

Through his priests, he continued Jesus Commandments. He did not let the Gospel wither away. And now almost world widely known, his Society is still the bridge for both the worldly and holy alike. It reconciles the sinner while the pious assists him. From pagans to orphanage, from hostels to schools, and from bewildered couple (or family) to a confused individual, the SSPX were here or there to bring back the light and to show the road to sanctity.

Oh, praise be to the Most Holy Triune God for using Archbishop Lefebvre as an instrument! His Excellency must have a lot of graces on him. Yes, God lives on him that’s why he persevered. Only time will tell if the Society he founded would waver and fall. But may God forbid! May it be safeguarded by numerous saints and most especially by the Blessed Virgin, most pure and most strong. May it continue to defend Holy Mother Church from heresy, novelty, and schism!

By the way, I just learned yesterday that Miss Swarna Vongala had already taken the habit. I’m very much delighted to hear that long awaited Asian news! Oh, would that I be one soon! I long to be with my God and forever serve Him unselfishly!

Since today’s the feast of all the Saints, I shall greet here my patron saints. Happy happy feast day to thee, St. Gregory Nazianzen, St. Basil the Great, St. Joan of Arc, St. Scholastica, St. Christina, and St. Januarius. Oh my dear patron saints, do not leave me here! Be my constant intercessors to our Lord! Help me most especially to attain Heaven!

Also, I would like to post here that tomorrow is the day dedicated for the Holy Souls in Purgatory. Let’s pray for all those who are still detained there. It is very painful staying there! They definitely need the Holy Sacrifice of Mass and our own prayers. Let me end here with a prayer that will freed 1000 souls each time this is prayed.

Eternal Father, I offer Thee the most precious Blood of Thy Divine Son Jesus in union with all the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the Universal Church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux, Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux

Let the Sacred Cross be my Light, let not the devil be my guide. Someone recently gave it to me. It was sort of a short prayer for encouragement. And ever since yesterday, I started praying it. I’d always be grateful to that person who revived my intrepidness. I was on the brink of misery, but Our Lady is so wonderful for holding me back and gave me hope through this person.

I admit there were times I succumbed. Lack of prayer and watchfulness were the main causes, I guess. My past mistakes make me tremble in fear to stand in the presence of the Innocent Lamb. Had I not have the Blessed Virgin Mary, I’d certainly be unheard by the Just Judge. He Who demands goodness on every single thing I do; I am but worthy to deserve shame and dust.

Sometime the devil wants me to think that I’m too guilty even to ask for the Virgin’s intercession. But faith enlightens me that the Blessed Lady never turns away one of her children. No matter how heinous - provided one is sincere in repenting. Indeed, that was the pact she sealed when her crucified Son was uttering to her on the Cross.

I realize God wants me with my weakness. But I also understand God wants me to be perfect just as He is. I must never take it for granted. It doesn’t matter how many times I’ve fallen. But what matters most is that I’m willing to rise and reconstruct my life once more. Yes, my human nature is weak but Jesus Himself overcame it through many sufferings and finally by dying in the Cross.

I know I’m no perfect person, but I must comprehend God destined it so I can best appreciate His bountiful mercies. And how powerful the Blessed Virgin Mary is who so much loves us and wants to save us — for that is the price of her Beloved Son’s death.

Oh Immaculate Virgin, would that every sinner come to thine recourse and hell would be already empty! Be always near to me as I traverse this dangerous road. And most especially help me to love God more strongly yet tenderly as well! Amen.