In the Philippines, when your children go to a private Catholic school there are no such things as scholarships, grants, free school materials, etc.
In the end, we recognized our parents’ sacrifices by making sure we all graduated on time without giving them the headaches that we constantly hear from others.
Why? Simply because we loved them and did everything we could to honor them and give them the JOY that they deserve.
All 5 of us were brought up with the ability to “speak our minds” (OK, read, ‘opinionated’). Just like other children, there were moments when we wanted more than our fair share on many things – mainly, chocolates, ice cream, or cake. My Mom would simply ask us, “If you want more, who among your siblings would you choose to receive less or to do without?” That was the “clincher” question because it made us realize how much we loved each other and our selfishness will only cause us nothing but grief. That is the kind of LOVE we get from having learned to LOVE GOD!
*****
AFTER 26 YEARS, ONE OF OUR AIR CONDITIONING UNITS NOW “RUSTS IN PEACE!”
Last Sunday, I asked (okay, begged) for help to defray the cost of replacing one of the units. Immediately, people responded generously. One of our parishioners, who have asked to remain anonymous, is challenging others to give and he will match it up to $10,000.00. By the end of the day, I have received numerous promises for financial help. Having just preached about “expectant faith”, I know in my heart that we will have enough to cover the cost of a new unit. Hopefully, the new one will last for another 26 years. Once again, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
*****
“Never regret a day in your life. Good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience, the worst days give you lessons, and the best days give you memories!”
-Anonymous-