Send me...I will go (Take 2!)

I'm leaving today.

As I was packing my bags this morning and double checking for the last time, I spontaneously typed a text message and sent it to everyone (basically saying that I'm gonna leave this afternoon but I'll drop by at NIA so if anyone can come to say goodbye that would be great). Idk, I guess I just wanted to have a proper farewell before I leave for good.

This wouldn't have been an issue if it were not for the strong typhoon that's currently bearing down on our city. Because then, the Sunday worship service wouldn't have been cancelled and I can see everyone anyway. But as it was, the morning service was cancelled and I was left with no choice but to try if some people can still come despite the strong rains/winds.

I don't know what people expected (food? haha sorry guys) but what I was thinking was just to see them and then say goodbye and then go and wait for the bus. xD But it soon became apparent (to Edjan, at least) that there's a need for a more organized 'farewell' so he kinda just announced on the spot some sort of programme. xD And he's now the self-proclaimed emcee. Okay then.

1...2....3...pose!

So as the strong winds and rain raged outside, everyone who came settled down in the kitchen. The whole time everyone was talking about their first impressions of and memorable experiences with me, I was actually trying hard not to internalize everything lest I end up crying. But I really appreciate you guys: Debby (thanks for the gifts), Lady (thanks for the shirt), Joel (you need a new dogtag now hehe), Ron (for that closing message), Sam (I still have your 'visa'), Dave (you'll get over that 'trauma' eventually), Dan (who was sick but still came), Josh (did u really cry?hehe), Edj (for the many reminders re learning bicycle and drums), Haj (for being ever supportive), Junex (for that sweet message, thanks bro) and Jaden (for the nice surprise of just being there).

What can I say, God is indeed FAITHFUL, especially in fulfilling His promises.

The ride was not easy. But it's all for His glory (my faith's maturity is only a bonus).

You will go out in joy
    and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills
    will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field
    will clap their hands.
13 Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper,
    and instead of briers the myrtle will grow.
This will be for the Lord’s renown,
    for an everlasting sign,
    that will endure forever.”
- Isaiah 55:12-13

Now, off to my new mission...

Of Miracles and Blessings

The deadline that almost cancelled my 'study in Japan' dream altogether

Okay, it was my fault, too. I totally did not mind the deadline for the tuition exemption application because all the while I was thinking that I won't have to deal with it until I personally arrive there in Handai. So imagine my surprise when I just randomly checked the webpage of the tuition exemption this afternoon and discovered that the online registration for it was about to end in 2 hours! 0_o

To say I was dumbstruck was an understatement. I sat there facing the laptop with realizations coming over me wave after wave... Why did I not take note of the deadline for this? If I had not seen this today, I might as well not push through with my studies. (Because it's an application to exempt me from paying the very expensive tuition, I probably won't get my family's permission to go if I wasn't able to apply.) I would still like to marvel at how miraculous the whole thing was but I need to get down to business asap... 

Needless to say, I breezed through the instructions and entered the online reg system at once. Then I hit another roadblock: 80% of the instructions and text on the forms are in Japanese! -_- It seems like they're really discouraging foreign students from applying to their tuition exemption program huh? Left with precious few minutes and very little choice, I decided to open a Google Translate tab and manually copy-paste every text beside text boxes that I need to fill up just to make sure I don't put my Name where it's asking for Address.

It was exciting, yes. But it was also totally scary. And embarassing (how such an important date slipped my mind) *facepalm*

Thank God I was able to finish the online reg barely 5 minutes before the deadline. Then I just sat there quietly for a few more minutes thinking how it could have gone a number of possible messed up ways but didn't. 

I could have dismissed the idea of visiting the webpage this afternoon. But I didn't. 

Or the electricity/Internet could have been cut. But it didn't. 

Which was why I was so blown away by God when that two gruelling hours was finished. He's so amazing. Now, I only need to send the hard copy of the documents by Friday, which would call for another miracle.

"... no weapon forged against you will prevail,

    and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.

This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,

    and this is their vindication from me,”

declares the Lord.

Isaiah 54:17

--

Cellgroup

Yesterday was supposed to be our CG but all of them wasn't able to make it to Admin until 7pm XD so I just rescheduled it for today. Who knows if I would still be here on Thursday, right? Anyway, thank God that even though it was raining real hard, Meg, Joyce and Kheyna were able to come. And amidst a bowl full of Clover and Peewee, we discussed the stages of spiritual maturity (among others). I gotta say, it was very comfortable having a CG there in the Sunday school area of the kitchen.

*P.S. Haj, I better not see that pic posted anywhere.

--

Then we went 'shopping'

Ate Jade has been telling me about all those clothes and shoes her relatives have sent her from abroad ages ago and how I should check them out to see if there are some that I would like to have. We've scheduled (and rescheduled) appointments of when I should drop by their house but something always comes up. So when we met again tonight after IPM she reminded me of it and I promptly promised I would come over there after a few minutes, just as soon as the raining lets up.

But it was already 8.40pm and it was still raining hard. And the surrounding areas has filled up with water that walking around wearing shoes was not something you'd do anymore. 

I was just about to debate with myself the pros and cons of such a trip to marketing when Dan (ever the proactive pusher) immediately suggested we should go for it. 

Um, yeah, what about the shoes that we're wearing? 

Borrow slippers from Ron and Den! 

Ookay. I relented. That could work. So we left our stuff (and shoes) at NIA and braved the flood/rain. I was thinking that we can sort of grab-and-go the clothes that Ate Jade will give.  But I would soon learn that it would take us a long time sorting through all the clothes. And sure enough, after a few minutes, Ron was already looking for us because a.) They're about to close the hall and b.) Den had to go home already. I'm really sorry for the inconvenience Den =/

After it became apparent that we would have to spent longer time than expected there, we just worked something out to get the slippers to Den and get our stuff from the hall. After all, it would be rude to leave when Ate Jade already had noodles prepared for us ;) With the looming concern now gone, we were able to comfortably sort through more shirts, jackets, pants and bags. We even had to go home via trike because we got so much stuff that it's hard to carry XD

I really thank God for all these blessings He gave us through Ate Jade. I could really use those jackets and shoes abroad. And I'm pretty sure the guys also appreciate the sack full of bags, shoes and jackets XD

“Come, all you who are thirsty,

    come to the waters;

and you who have no money,

    come, buy and eat!

Come, buy wine and milk

    without money and without cost.

Why spend money on what is not bread,

    and your labor on what does not satisfy?

Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,

    and you will delight in the richest of fare.

Isaiah 55:1-2

Send me...I will go XD

Guys, mapapatawad nyo ba ko? 

Maniwala kau, I just cropped and saved the edited pic at ung original lang ung dinelete ko. Really. (Sobrang nakonsensya nman ako dun ... ung isa kc jan mukang iiyak na e, hahaha)

--

I came late on purpose but somehow Kuya Marvin and Dave they still managed to find out that I was already there, just chillin in the kitchen with Kuya TJ, Poleng, Kristian and Edj.  So in the end, I still found myself in front of the whole youth service congregation while Kuya Marvin announced to everyone about my upcoming trip to Japan. I have no idea what my expression was the entire time I was up front (because I was busy chewing the bread that's in my mouth haha). Was it surprise? Awkwardness? A get-me-out-of-here look? XD Aw man, idk...being in front is definitely not one of my strengths.

But I'm thankful for the prayers ^^ Especially when Kuya Romy mentioned something about my being a missionary there as well, apart from being a student. That's actually part of my deal with God so I was surprised!

After the prayer though, I quickly returned to the kitchen to avoid any further 'exposure' hehe. But people still found me there with reactions ranging from surprise (Jasmine), sadness (Christian, Rose) and support (Haj) to it's-time-to-take-a-selfie (Kristian, Poleng ... everyone).

Right?

To be honest, I don't know how to deal with so many people trying to say goodbye to me T_T sorry Jasmine, I didn't know what more to say =/ And also because Dan has told me to hurry up a hundred times as they're already set to go. (I was expecting pizza so of course I'd hurry up haha.) Shoutout to Jaden, and to Joshua who told me he almost cried awhile ago hehe. Same to Aaron and Deejay who admitted to being more emotional than I was during the prayer. Man, I'm really gonna miss these people T_T

As soon as we got out the door, we quickly fled towards the gate (even if it was raining) because I didn't want to linger there and go on a drama about my departure. And again, because dinner is already waiting.

--

Thanks to the person who sponsored the whole dinner in Jollibee (not gonna say who -- it's better you just receive your reward from God than from people, right?). Also, thanks to Carlo and Junex for being there early, haha. And to Marvic, Nelson and Jude for being there even though they were late. Just kidding; it's no big deal. XD

Salamat sa mga kapatid ko (na hindi nakalimutan ang promise ko last year that I will take a picture with them just before I go) : Dan, Sam, Ron. Continue being faithful to the Lord.

What can I say, it was a dinner full of ... picture taking. And we even have such a strict cameraman/director *coughdancough* who was always chastising me for not smiling enough in the pics. We don't have the same level of expression for happiness, remember? =p  (And if you still can't move on dun sa 'nawalang' picture, there's Mark 11:25 hehe. Again, I did not do it on purpose guys. I really just cropped it.)
 

 You know, up until this point I was still hoping for a pizza.... XD

Then Ronnie produced a framed drawing from his bag. And my first reaction was: Huh?! 

I just couldn't believe they managed to get hold of a decent picture of me! They proudly said it's all because of an 'accident' with Google. Oh. They must have discovered the STI news page where my graduation pic was posted. And I was right *facepalm* Apparently, they were just messing around with Google search one day while trying to search for their names. And because I was just there near them at that time (imagine that!), they also tried my name and boom!  Note to self: Never underestimate possibilities (and the power of Google).

Ok na sana kaso kumanta nman kayo ng 'happy sendoff'....mejo nalungkot nman ako dun T_T    

Until we meet again ^^,

I make known the end from the beginning,
    from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
    and I will do all that I please.’ 

 From the east I summon a bird of prey;
    from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose.
What I have said, that I will bring about;
    what I have planned, that I will do.

-Isaiah 46:10-11

I will miss this...

Well, let's just say I didn't expect this evening to turn out the way it did XD

Bro, you almost made me cry. No seriously.

First off, people often stopped me to say goodbye and stuff which totally made the thought of leaving sink in to me. Edj even gave me a shirt and told me not to forget him T_T

Then when Poleng found out that I'll already be going home tomorrow, she hugged me so tight I had to back off and plead "wag mo kong paiyakin" hehe.. Even Junex already thanked me for everything and reminded me to study well.  

What's up with people trying to make me cry, huh? *teary-eyed*



--

Birthday celeb

Anyway, we managed to pull off the cake surprise well after LAYF. I asked for help from Meg and Pia to get the cake while Merry Joyce made sure Kheyna (the birthday girl) waits by the stage. We even had to light the candle several times because it keeps on getting blown off XD 

Unfortunately, singing Happy Birthday while holding a cake drew a lot of attention and Kuya Marvin was instantly beside us with his cam. Of course they would insist on getting a group picture -_- And being the cell leader who's about to say goodbye in a few days, I had to oblige them. (Which got me in a lot of trouble later as some of my friends saw what happened and promptly chided me for not ever taking a picture with them. Uh-oh.)

#wishyouwerehere Armina, Lady and Debby

I'm really thankful though that we're able to have dinner together ^^ Thanks Pia, Meg, Joyce, Kheyna, Llyana and Tin!

--

Neil's fake-sounding-but-totally-genuine-laugh

Because we're practically neighbors now, Aaron, Neil, Kurt, Deejay and I often travel home together (but not before stopping by 7eleven). This time was no different as we found ourselves back to our favorite hangout place XD 

As expected, Aaron and Deejay have a lot of stories to share, especially when it's about Neil (apparently, Neil is easy to make fun of because he doesn't get mad). To be fair, Neil is really hilarious as he often fails to correctly hear what's the topic of our conversation.

For example:
Aaron: Kelangan natin bumili ng unan.
Neil: Ay, meron pa akong naiwang  bigas sa lingap!
(See what I mean?)

Or that time when Kurt lamented that they have an English exam the next day and Neil just responded with an apathetic "Aww".  *rofl*    He's quite the accidental comedian I tell you.

And as if that's not enough, he suddenly burst into his staccato laughter that sounds fake but is actually real. I still can't get over how contagious it was XD I don't know if it's because it sounded so fake and ridiculous or what but I just found myself laughing so hard my stomach was literally hurting. Aaron was also finding it hard to stop his laughter while Deejay had to go outside just to make the laughter subside. By the end of the laughing fit, all of us had teary eyes.

I'm afraid the people who saw/heard us tonight must have thought we're a bit drunk because of our antics and nonstop laughing. Don't worry, I won't even tell about Aaron peeing by a tree on our way home because he really had to go. I'll never ever talk about that.

Romans 1:16

It started as a mere what-if.

After our respective cellgroups last night, Neil said that he's really looking forward to having more cell members. Well, what if we share the Gospel? We can start right after we had dinner!

Honestly, even I was surprised that he readily agreed. XD But thanks to that, the habit of sharing Jesus to other people has started again. 

And so, after eating dinner and doing a little review to brush up on the outline of the Gospel, we went out to fish.

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

- Romans 6:23

We met Christian who was sitting alone in USSC at that time and Neil shared the good news of salvation to him. Turns out, he's a Baptist Christian and he has heard the Gospel shared to him many times. I told him that perhaps God just wants to challenge him to do the same or just remind him of His love.

 

Afterwards, we walked around for a bit more until we passed by the lagoon again and saw Kuya Joe sitting by himself. We half-jokingly told him that we almost shared the Gospel to him. XD Anyway, Neil was evidently very excited with the prospect of Gospel-sharing so I totally took advantage of that and suggested that we should share again tomorrow. Haha. (Aaron's declaration that Neil would be a 'pastor' might just come true!)

--

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.

Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins.

Isaiah 40:1-2

I was supposed to meet my Monday cellgroup but since they're not available, I pushed through with the planned Gospel-sharing with Neil. Even better, Junex and Rey was able to join as well. After praying, we went out in pairs to Matthew 28:19. 

Rey and Junex shared to a group of people sitting near the infirmary while Neil and I each shared to a couple sitting by the lagoon. Both of us were nervous at first though. He was very vocal in saying that it felt like he can't breathe and he actually looked like he's about to hyperventilate but thank God he was able to do it. Tbh, on my part, I also felt unsure at first because it's going to be my first time to share to a couple. But I just took the plunge.

The couple I talked to are 2nd year Psych students named Crystal and EJ. They were attentive and really paid attention to what I was saying, and for that, I'm really thankful. Just beside us is the couple that Neil was talking to and all seems to be going well on his end, too.

Little did we know that our brothers on the other side were having a hard time. 

Apparently, Rey was caught unawares because one of the people in the group they approached is a foreigner. And he's really not comfortable speaking in English. Apart from that, the group seems to be in a hurry. Still, they're thankful that they were able to finish sharing the Gospel. Also, they learned in the end that they were talking to believers already.

Rey lamented that he felt he was not well-prepared for it and that he realized that the best way to go is to rely on God's power and not his own.

When we returned to admin to share our experiences, we met Jude and Nelson who also joined in. Jude told us of his first time sharing the Gospel just this afternoon with Dan. He was really in awe that just by sharing his testimony to the couple they approached in the "Chinese temple", the guy they were talking to started to cry. Indeed, God uses us, His children, mightily for His purpose of making Himself known to the lost.

All in all, we learned a lot from each other tonight. Questions were asked. Explanations and clarifications were shared.

--

One of the biggest answered prayer for today is that it didn't rain! Just before I left the house at 5.00pm dark clouds can already be seen on the sky and it looks pretty obvious that rain's about to pour down but I still prayed fervently (as I'm sure others did) for it not to happen. Thankfully, the day ended and it did not rain (well, aside from the few droplets that did fell for a few seconds) in CLSU. What made me extra thankful was the fact that it rained downtown as proven by the wet roads when I walked home.

P.S. Kuya Joe, I'm really sorry I wasn't able to attend the SP Fellowship, hehe. (Anyway, I'm an undergrad once again so...) I guess I was more productive out on the field today.

Tbh

It's hard to pretend everything's fine with you when actually something's bothering you right?

Idk. Maybe it's just me.

At first you can still shrug your shoulders and say "no big deal" and believe it will eventually pass. After all, you have faith.

Then before you know it, you're already neck-deep. But being the "mature" person that everybody thinks you are, somehow you just always end up crying on to God about it. The thing is, God seems silent too. Well, you've heard it before: The Teacher is always silent during a test. Knowing that doesn't make it any easier though.

You still long to hear a clear word of instruction from Him because, you know, you don't want to return to the old you who just decides on her own. You want to consult Him now every step of the way. (Dare I say,) why couldn't He make it easier for you to know His will?

God is sovereign.    His grace is made perfect in weakness.    Be thankful in all circumstances.    Consider it pure joy when you experience trials of many kinds. ...

You know all the right words for this. In fact, you can quote verses to yourself that seems applicable to the situation. But for some reason they just ring hollow to you. 

It's a good thing then that even though you feel like that, His words never cease being true.

If what we do is not driven by love, it's useless

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

- 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

To the future

10.30 pm. I was so tired. So hungry. Just got back from practice and I can't believe I couldn't even muster the strength to eat in alumni anymore (or was it because eating on a plate does not seem appealing to me at the moment?) despite desperately craving for food+cold juice for hours now. So it was with a heavy heart that I trudged to main gate to wait for a jeepney home.

Aside from the frequent buses and trucks racing their way to and fro, there's no jeepney in sight so while I was waiting I had no choice but to do the next best thing: ponder about life. XD

No seriously. As I looked around the lifeless space around me, I can't help but think how this will be a far cry from the life that I will have once I start studying abroad. I'm guessing I won't have the liberty to linger outdoors this late in the night as I'd be busy doing schoolwork/part-time job by then. I don't think I'll get as much alone time there either. So even when I was really tired (and hungry), I just tried to savor the moment of peace and alone time while I still can.

In that day you will say:

"Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name;

make known among the nations what He has done,

and proclaim that His name is exalted..." 

- Isaiah 12:4

Soon, I'll be in a foreign land surrounded by unknown people from all walks of life. I know God is preparing me for the things I will face once I'm out of this comfort zone and thrown in the reality of a vast world. Just a few hours ago, I can still recall what my follow-ups shared about the persecutions that Christians experience in their country on a daily basis.  

Am I ready to face all those and more? Can I still share about who God is in my life once I'm out there? In the midst of my success, can I still remember to give back all the honor to Him?

Well, that depends on the foundation that I need to strengthen before I go. I need to make wise decisions about deepening my roots in the faith and relying on God for everything. Talk about prayer and quiet time and true worship.

Once in a while, the fingers on my right hand will bring me back to reality as they are still smarting from being stuck in a car door a while ago. [Funny story: I was totally not aware that I was holding on to the part of the car that will get my fingers crushed once the door is closed. That's why it's not a good idea to skip meals/water for long stretches of time especially when you're tired. It messes up the brain. Anyway, they all fussed when they realized my fingers got stuck for real. (Because, you know, they didn't think I was serious when I said "Ouch" as I didn't sound hysterical enough. The thing is, I never panic.) *shrugs* Let's pray it won't affect my ability to play the piano tomorrow and on Wednesday. Besides, I still need to do my laundry tomorrow.]

Two "Saving Grace" (extended version) and one "Always" after, I finally caught sight of a jeepney.
よし！

Btw, I think some of the passengers were also Christians as I heard one of them singing along to "The Anthem" which I was playing on loudspeakers XD

Went straight to 7eleven and sat down with a cold juice and sandwich. Dinner at 11pm? Why not.

As I started to eat, I was still not in a bright mood though. Then right on cue, a friend called and shared some good news. Hey, God really knows the exact time when we need some encouragement.

Sing to the Lord, for He has done glorious things; 

let this be known to all the world.

- Isaiah 12:5

Is it still called "faith"?

Will you still say "faith" is at work when you are asking for all sorts of signs and evidences that your prayer is going to get answered just as you want it? I wonder.

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, certain of what we do not see.

I know God has given me several promises about my studies abroad. But as things go rocky one after another, I found myself asking God for assurance time and again. God can You please give me another word from You that this is going to push through? Can You please let me know if I should take this step or not?

If I have faith God will come through, why all these questions that seem to imply doubt? Is it not enough for me that God said it will happen that I need to be assured every step of the way? Turns out, I still have a lot to learn about stepping out in faith.

Woe to those who draw sin along with cords of deceit, and wickedness as with cart ropes, 19 to those who say, "Let God hurry, let him hasten his work so we may see it. Let it approach, let the plan of the Holy One of Israel come, so we may know it." - Isaiah 5:18-19

What use is my so-called faith if it needs to be supported by something tangible every time. As I understand it, 2 Corinthians 5:7 basically says that living by faith is the opposite of living by sight.

God increase my faith and make it steadfast til the time comes when I could say, as king Ahaz did: "... I will not put the Lord to the test."

... If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all. - Isaiah 7:9

See ME in the Little things

Keep your eyes open, and see how God answers your prayers.

Looking back a few days ago, I have realized how active my God is in answering my prayers. This may seem so shallow, but I really praise Him for what I have expereinced from Him. He is faithful and there's no doubt about it.

One night, after our daily evangelism in CLSU, we (Ronnie, Samuel, ate Marife) have gathered to share something about or encounters and experiences with the people whom we have shared the Gospel to. Then, we had our prayer chain (where we take turns in saying a prayer as the Holy Spirit leads), declaring that the Lord will protect the seeds planted to the hearts of those souls.

When it came to my turn as the last one to pray, the Spirit led me to pray for specific needs for our ministry -- provision of Gospel tracts, Bibles and Bible study contacts. My faith was challenged after declaring that this prayer will be answered with a YES the following week.

Today, I have remembered that prayer. Last Friday afternoon, my Bible study leader gave me 14 Gideon's New Testament. Then last Thursday 4 new members were added in our Cell Group (Bible Study Group). And finally, last Wednesday I received a text message from the head of the Evangelism team of the ministry:

"Hi Dan! Nakabili na kami ng tracts. PtL!"

Are these just coincidences? Absolutely not. But these are proofs that the God I serve is living and active, just as His Word is.

I don't know if this story sounds so interesting for you. My purpose in writing this is to remind all those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ that there is an assurance of answered prayers. God cannot be contained in a box. We cannot limit His greatness and ability to answer every prayer that we have. If He is faithful in answering these small prayers, I strongly believe that He is also able to answer even the most impossible prayer you have. He never forgets every prayer you make -- including the brand, the quantity, the date and even the most complicated description you prayed for. He honors every detail of your prayers. He may not give it to you the way you want it to be, but one thing is for sure: When He gives it to you, it is at its best.

 "I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?" (Jer 32:27) 

"Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." (John16:24) NIV

The Perks of Being a CG Leader

1 Peter 1:6-7 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

It is very challenging as a soon-to-be leader of cell leaders to experience a very great leap of faith. These past few days, my emotion was stirred up after knowing the situations of my follow ups. I felt so bad after being disappointed with their present situation and not knowing their situation until now. I really felt as if I am no longer a leader to them. Well, I know it’s wrong. After all, I am just an instrument for their spiritual growth and maturity. It’s just hard for me to witness that those God have entrusted me are experiencing trials or will experience trials because of their disobedience. I am crying to the Lord every night and asking for His help. And He is faithful. He never failed me.

These verses served as my comfort. Rejoicing in times of trouble is not a normal attitude of a normal person. But God, through Peter, really encourages us not just to rejoice but to do it with greatness.

The Lord knows that following Him is not easy, but it is always worth it. He has already warned us that we may suffer grief in all kinds of trials, but the comfort is there. He assured us that it will just be for a little while because His coming is at hand.

Right now, I am so thankful that I have experienced and still experiencing all these things. I realized that I am in the process of refining my faith to Him who is worthy of my all. I have to go through this like a gold passing through fire to prove its genuineness. Indeed, the Lord is faithful. He never let me give up to the trials but to surrender my life to Him amidst them.

The coming of the Lord is near. His rescue is at hand! He is going to do something great in my life and ministry for His glory. I am so excited to experience how He will work in me, for me and through me.

Lord, You always thrill me. Enable me to see things the way you see them. I will greatly rejoice because my Redeemer lives and He lives in me!

Is this a Scam OR a Social Experiment by a Psych Student?

I was just minding my own business this afternoon, walking along the road between CBAA and Oval as I waited for a passing tricycle (in vain) when I happened to look over my shoulder and saw a boy wearing a yellow shirt. *shrugs* No big deal. I continued walking until I reached the corner of CAS and CEN so I just decided to turn left and proceed to the second gate instead of waiting for a trike to take me to the main gate. When I turned that corner, I saw the yellow-shirt boy (who's a bit far from me, afaik) broke into a run. Hmm, must be trying to catch up to someone/something. When I was almost in front of the IGS office though, I heard someone calling my attention and when I looked behind, it was that boy.

He looked like he must be in junior/senior high and kind of lost so I thought he'd ask for directions. However, the first question he asked me was: 

"May kasama po ba kayo?"  (Uh, that was a totally strange ice-breaking question, especially as he can see that I was by myself. Oh well, I got a full load of patience today so I humored him.)

ME: "Wala, bakit?"

"Dito po ba kayo nag-aaral?" (Again, with the weird question.)

ME: "Oo, dati. Incoming student ka ba?"

He was quite hesitant in answering and just gave a noncommital nod.

Up to this point I was still waiting for him to ask for directions to somewhere but instead he put on this problematic/shy/paawa expression and said he's going to tell me something. I immediately thought maybe he has a problem he wanted to share so I gave him the go-ahead and then braced myself for a lot of drama and the eventual counseling. 

"Pwede po bang makahiram ng pera, pang-pasahe lang po pauwi."

ME: "San ka ba uuwi?"

"Sa Cabanatuan po."

ME: "Anu nangyari sau?" (Well, he doesn't have any bag or anything with him and it struck me as a strange thing so I casually asked him what happened to him. *shrugs* )

"E naubos ko po kasi ung pera ko."

ME: (Dude, can you be more vague? Let's try another question...) "Asan yung bag mo?"

"Nasa dorm po." (Oookay...)

ME: "Hindi mo ba muna kukunin ung gamit mo sa dorm?" (You know, because you're gonna go home right?)

 

"Hindi po, kukuha lang po ako ng damit sa bahay namin; hindi rin po ako magtatagal."

All the while we were talking, I just continued walking towards the second gate so I naturally thought he's going to ride the jeepney with me -- because he's walking beside me, and he needs to go to Cabanatuan right? So my plan was to just pay for his fare once we're in the jeepney. Easy. In the meantime, I want to know what is up with him so I was going to continue asking him questions when he suddenly said "Sige po" and bade me goodbye.  

ME: Huh? 

"May pupuntahan lang po ako dito" (pointing to CAS). 

Oh. Okay, that was weird. I seriously thought that was the end of it -- that some kid just misunderstood me and took my numerous questions as a sign of rejection -- so I shrugged it off and credited it as yet another strange experience with strangers. Believe me, I've had lots of weird encounters with strangers. (There was even a time when two guys on a motorcycle stopped by the sidewalk and insisted I watch their magic trick... but that's a different story.)

Anyway...

Imagine my surprise then when a friend shared something eerily similar over dinner. He was just at the part where "a kid wearing a yellow shirt suddenly called his attention earlier today as he was around the Old Market area" when I blurted out, "Parang kilala ko yang sinsabi mo!"

And as he went on with his story, it became clear: Yep, we had a similar encounter. Needless to say, he was also surprised. Apparently, he was approached by the kid using the same MO, only this time, my friend said he gave him a hundred bucks for his fare because he's genuinely concerned for him.

But that's not the end of it -- turns out, another of our friends who was listening was also approached by the kid A FEW DAYS AGO. Well, after the standard questions, this other friend finally gave the kid all the change he has with him. Seems pretty obvious that this yellow-shirt kid has been busy, no?

I really hope we're just jumping to conclusions here but I just can't help but think what a "coincidence" it is that the same person (worse, they could be different kids, just with the same MO) approached us within a span of several days.

OR, for all we know, the whole thing was being recorded and we just became part of a social experiment by a Psych student.  Great  -_-    (Perhaps next time I'd pretend to be a foreign student to make it more interesting for them.)

Back to Baguio (after 8 years)!

I was still on my way back from Masinloc, Zambales when I thought I kinda wanted to travel by myself again, perhaps somewhere north this time. But I couldn't decide on a certain place to visit so I was planning to do this random backpacking thing where I'd get on a bus and see where it takes me.

Well, it turns out I don't have to do that because within that bus trip, I got a message from my friend Lady (Indonesian MS student) that her two siblings will be coming over to visit the Philippines and she'd like me to come with them to Baguio. Wow. That was quick.

Thank God I'm free on the day they scheduled the trip so I agreed. We rode a UV Express van from Munoz (Php 220) but the first trip would not leave until 8am so we had a perfect chance to chat.

Lady's older sister Rimsa (right) works at a BPO in Indonesia while their younger brother Ricky (left) is still studying.

The trip to Baguio took us around 3 hours but I couldn't sleep because I was on the lookout for cool views. Plus, I realized that the last time I was in Baguio was during a school convention -- 8 years ago.

Anyway, it was just like how I remembered it. We got off in front of the Burnham Park where the van's terminal is also located and then proceeded to search for jeepneys going to Camp John Hay. But after walking around for a bit, we decided to just get on a cab. (Also because the jeepney drivers told us no jeepneys go inside the Camp and they'd just take us up to the main gate, from where we'd have to walk all the way up.) Cab it is.

Good thing we were there during a weekday because there's no traffic at all and going to CJH was a breeze. The meter only reached Php 71. Not bad. I asked the cab driver to drop us off at Mile Hi Center inside the CJH where there are numerous shops and restaurants. It's not as lively/crowded as one might expect but I was thankful for that.

Camp John Hay

I was looking for the small resto that I read about (it's called Little John's, if I'm not mistaken) but I couldn't seem to find it so we just settled for Tapa King, which turned out for the best. For one, their meals are not as expensive as the other restaurants there and for another, I've missed eating their Tapa King meal! When I was working in Manila, the only time I could eat meat was whenever I'd be in TK. Anyway, I was glad to discover that their signature dish still tasted as savory as before. ^_^


After the filling brunch, we passed by the numerous clothing stores and browsed leisurely for some time. Then we headed to the Historical Core, guided by Google Maps. Well, I only know that its general direction is in the right side so we turned right and proceeded to walk up the hill which looked so refreshing and, er, green. There were lots of picnic tables and benches which could be perfect if we have more time to hang out.

We're still halfway up but we were already catching our breaths. I did not expect I'd have a hard time climbing up the hill but you know, it's Baguio so maybe it's elevation has something to do with it as well.

When we finally reached the top, we were met by yet another open nature park and a road. Consulting our semi-reliable Google Maps, we decided to turn left and soon enough we saw a sign that says Historical Core. Hooray for technology!

Bell Amphitheater.

The entrance fee costs Php 60 (regular) but only Php 30 for student/senior. I think that's cheap since you can take all the time you want roaming around its areas that include the Bell House, Bell Amphitheater, Historical Trail and the Cemetery of Negativism. 

Going inside the Bell House was like being transported back in time. "Quaint" was a perfect adjective to describe it -- old-fashioned but charming. It's just too bad we couldn't visit the kitchen/dining area and the other room at the back because people were conducting meetings and seminars. Plus, the security guard warned us to stay out of those areas so pretending to "accidentally" walk in on them was out of the question.

Inside the Bell House, Camp John Hay

The little Statue of Liberty.

After sitting down for a bit in the little Statue of Liberty park, we headed down to get a cab to Minesview Park which turned out also to be a quick ride. We even passed by the Wright Park (where you can ride horses) and The Mansion (official summer residence of the Pres).

Minesview Park was just like how I remembered it: Chock-full of souvenir stalls and flower shops. We stopped by for the obligatory photo against the awesome mountain backdrop then headed for the souvenir shops where they bought shirts, trinkets and keychains. As for me, I just bought Php 50 worth of sweets. That should do it.

When we got outside, there was a strawberry taho vendor (just what I was looking for!) so we quickly tried it.They also bought some street food (fish balls, etc) then it's time for us to ride a jeepney (Php 10) to Burnham Park which would be our last stop.

This time though, we got in a bit of a traffic jam, perhaps because it was when students were heading home. It's still cool though as it started to drizzle and we felt the nice climate the City of Pines is known for. (Seeing all the students outside reminded me of what could have happened had I accepted the scholarship that was offered to me when I was in college. It was a pretty sweet deal, too, but during that time I was so done with studying so I turned it down. XD No regrets.)

From where we got off the jeepney, we stepped right onto the side of the park where vendors were selling fresh flower bouquets and colored roses. Each rose only costs Php 10 while pre-arranged bouquets go for Php 100. So inexpensive.

Inside Burnham were the usual boat rides, bicycle rental shops and food vendors (who also sell, for some reason, fancy hats). I was already entertaining the thought of buying a fedora so I walked away.

After buying some more street food, we sat down beside the lake and watched people on rented boats and smiled at the antics of students playing loudly on the grass. You know, even though Baguio appeared to be crowded and so urban, it's still a far cry from the headaches of Manila.

Had early dinner at Chowking where I discovered that their fried chicken actually tastes better than Jollibee's or McDo's! To think that we only decided to eat there because the van terminal (in front of the Orchidarium) is just a few steps away, haha. Thankfully, we were just in time for the last trip which left at around 7.00pm, though it's already full of passengers by 6.30pm. Oh well, it was still a great day.

*A special shout-out to Rimsa for sponsoring the whole trip ^^ and to Lady for inviting me.

Hey, I have a picture.

Our 'Epic' Journey to Oriental Mindoro: Day 4 - A roadtrip and a church cleanup

*still incomplete

Didn't have any particular plans for today but I still woke up early to take a shower just because. We then had breakfast of puto and coffee outside in the mini-hut with other relatives of Albert. Several Christian songs after, I went inside to nurse my runny nose and to have a quiet time -- literally and figuratively.

Then I tried to somewhat put my stuff in order to make it easier for tomorrow's packing when I realized I really should wash the pants I used yesterday because I don't want to pack it still moist and smelling like saltwater. So I headed straight to Tita's to wash two pairs of pants and hung out there while waiting for...whatever plans they come up with I guess.

Well, it's almost time for brunch and Dan has yet to finish his laundry and everybody else has yet to shower so I guess we'll be leaving later than sooner.

First stop: 333 steps

Finally, just before lunchtime, everyone was able to prepare for a road trip so courtesy of Albert's relatives, we headed straight for that place that has 333 steps. I enjoyed the ride as we were able to watch nice sceneries unfolding outside the aircontinous van. We even shot a video clip but since I can't find a proper video hosting site, it'll have to wait.

Yep, that's a jump shot atop a long flight of stairs. Thumbs up to Albert XD

Anyway, most of us trekked up the stairs in the middle of the afternoon so you could just imagine how hot the weather was. We're all sweating like crazy and we had to stop for short breaks just to catch our breath. Good thing the view from the top is worth it.

So of course my camera-loving companions didn't waste such a great opportunity for photo-ops and took loads of pics. Never mind that the heat was unbearable, right Dan? XD

And he's shocked his skin got totally sunburnt. I wonder why.

Next stop:

Come on in!

It was way past lunchtime when we got back home and we only had a few minutes to cool down before we head off to Pastor Rey's. Albert has already mentioned to us about him during our first day there but we had to reschedule the visit because of some things.

I was thinking it would be like a so-so visit and imagined we'd probably talk about ministry stuff while eating a proper lunch. Well, I was wrong on both counts but I actually wouldn't trade what happened even for a family-size pizza.

The church led by Pastor Rey is located inside an elementary school where he works as a teacher. He also mans the cafeteria and lives there onsite as well. He came off as very friendly and welcoming, partly because he offered us drinks and cupcakes right off the bat.

10 commandments paper

Church visit turned church cleanup


And though we're totally beat from all that work, thank God we still had energy to walk (halfway) back home while jamming to Christian songs.


I was already itching to get a shower but the guys were still leisurely not-packing their stuff for tomorrow. -_- I was already like, Guys let's get moving already. But no, it still took us around an hour before we arrived at the big house. That was after I had to remind Ron that he should have packed everything already and after I was obliged to fold Dan's just-dried clothes.

Thankfully, Albert's parents drove us to the big house. Before I got the chance to sit down to dinner though, I already sensed that monthly period coming so I hurried to the shower. I was just taking my time there without realizing they might have been waiting for me to finish. XD And I don't want to blame mood swings that usually comes with period or anything but I must admit I totally lost appetite and even the will to interact with people at that time. That's why after that long shower, I already dozed off in the living room.

Tobecontinued...

Our 'Epic' Journey to Oriental Mindoro: Day 3 - Oceans, Boats and Gospel

Them: "We're going swimming today!"  

Me: "Cool. I can walk along the beach and stare at the ocean all I want."

Woke up on the floor with the laptop and tablet still running. Wow, thank God I fell asleep right AFTER I've finished my work. Never mind that the tablet and the laptop (both borrowed, by the way) and my phone/WiFi were running the whole time I was asleep. 

I've just woken up and I wanted to go sleep again -_-  But because we have a plan for today, I have to wake myself up properly. Hit the showers then.

For the record: Guys, really, I didn't mind sleeping on the floor that night morning. (Honestly, I can fall asleep anywhere). I hope Albert no one felt guilty or something, because I was not mad at all. :))

To the plaza to see the Morions.

By the way, before we left for the beach, we dropped by the plaza first to check out the so-called Morions. They're basically people who dressed up in costumes

Our 'Epic' Journey to Oriental Mindoro: Day 2 - Rest(?)house

It's technically Day 2 already but we're still on our way to Albert's place so... :)) 

The Long Wait Continues

I don't know about the others but I was feeling really drained by this time. I couldn't help but think about my work because I was supposed to finish 3 more articles last night and I wasn't able to do that. I was literally just staring blankly. I didn't want to talk because: a.) I was starving and I'm trying to conserve energy; and b.) I honestly couldn't think of anything else but work. haha

They were all taking turns guarding our spot in the long queue and I was just there sitting and feeling miserable. Then I realized... this is not how I want it to end. I could do better than just mope around, forcing God to listen to me lament about my sorry state. I then stood up and walked around with one goal in mind: To look for a place to charge the tablet and phone WiFi. While walking, I was thinking how easy it would be to ask for permission to plug in an outlet once I see an office-like place. 

The first spot I noticed

Our 'Epic' Journey to Oriental Mindoro: Day 1 - A series of patience-tests

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28

This was actually the second day. The second day I haven't slept properly because of work. (Not that I'm complaining; but still...) And to top it all off, I have to work while on the trip because I'm pretty sure the trip's not gonna be a short one (also because our CEO called for a conference this morning). 

It was not yet 9am and already I'm running low on steam. I have to figure out a way to open the tablet I borrowed (because the owner somehow forgot her password hehe) or else I won't have anything to use during the obligatory meeting. Between a spat at home, the password issue and the fact that they're already waiting for me at the bus stop, (needless to say) my nerves were fraying. Thank God they're all pumped up for the trip and were all in good spirits when I finally managed to arrived, hungry and 

Prologue: Our 'Epic' Journey to Oriental Mindoro

One time we were having dinner, I told them maybe we should all visit each of our hometown. You know, because I'd be leaving soon and I want to at least have a chance to visit their places. At first, I was half-joking. But since they all seemed excited at the idea, we already set a date for it: Holy Week. 

I suggested we should go to Albert's hometown as the main destination of our trip because it's far (haha). Of course we wanted to do it properly so we all agreed that each of us should pray for it (May Word ka na ba?) and pray for provision early on.

Initially, I had to chide Albert that we're serious about going to their home for the holiday so that he won't think we're just kidding when we said that. But eventually, the idea that we're all going to Mindoro for the holiday was set on our minds that whenever we're asked if we're doing something during the Holy Week, we'd say we'll be in Albert's place by then. #byfaith

The first time I prayed for it though was on March 2, haha. I asked God if He could perhaps allow all of us to go to Albert's during the Holy Week and to give us provisions for the whole trip. It was a request that we be allowed to go -- not just for fun though, but to also share the Gospel to Albert's family. I was surprised that I immediately got His Word about it: