I witnessed last Sunday how being there for someone in times of need is sometimes all it takes to make them feel better. One does not even have to do anything, but listen.
The efforts to reach out and help those who have been affected by the storm continue. Some homes are still under water, families displaced, and many hearts are left weary. Yet despite the devastating situation surrounding the people in our neighborhood, it was amazing to catch a glimpse of the emotional strength that they exhibited in the midst of this crisis. In spite of their own loss, they went out of their way to offer relief to those who needed it more. In turn, their own burdens were made light and in blessing the lives of others they were comforted.
I must admit that I initially froze at the sight of all the destruction that this typhoon had caused—the number of lives that have been lost and shattered. I was immobilized by thoughts that I might not be on higher ground and wasn’t in a position to lift up another, so I stayed put—snuggled in my own little corner, keeping a safe distance from it all.
But I’ve learned that in giving service to others in dire situations we find our own solace and strength. We don’t even have to hide the fact that we are weak and powerless in certain moments. We just do the best we could. I also realized that it takes a lot of humility to accept help from another and to acknowledge the fact that we need help. Trials such as these can truly be a humbling experience. Finally and most importantly, I’ve learned that one of the most comforting gifts we may receive during a difficult time is the mere presence of those who truly love and care for us—even if they do nothing but listen.
This is a beautiful post. I’m sorry You All have it so rough right now…many hearts are with you.
Namaste.
Thank you Blissbait. Much appreciated.
Yes Cherry, true enough, a listening ear, a pat on a shoulder, a little hug, a squeeze on the hand, even a smile means a lot these days.
Yes, Baby. And we should learn to appreciate and give thanks for these simple things. Thanks for your comment.
Cherry, here in N America we hear so much about the storm and other recent disasters worldwide, but to be there and expeience it yourself must be overwhelming.
I am so happy you and your family are Ok. Thank the Lord for these blessings.
Best wishes, Patrick
Thank you, Patrick. Send my regards to Josie.
You’re right about everything on this, Ate Che. I consider the safety of my family a miracle after I have seen the effects of Ondoy. My family lives in Malabon. The fact that it is the area common to flooding with the mere rainfall, and yet my family didn’t experienced the expected. It was really a miracle!
This week, I have been through tough times and what I really needed was a friend who could lend a shoulder to cry on and an ear to hear. I was so depressed. Just the mere presence of this friend was all I need, but then she was so tied up with other things also. I felt like giving up.
I told her at a later time the importance of her presence. We reconciled just lately after 2 weeks of misunderstanding. She realized that she was in the same situation as mine for almost 6 months and I was the one who was on her side during those trying and depressing times.
FYI: Ate Vangie Domingo left already the Philippines and she’s now in the US. I’m not sure what state she’s in.
Life is too short to be spent on misunderstandings, Meldy. I’m glad you and your friend settled things immediately. Way to go.
Hi Cherry,
Howdy? You’re in our prayers.
Thanks for the thought, Franco. We’re coping and people have really been very generous with their love and compassion. My heart is filled with gratitude.
Are you & family ok?My heart goes to all those affected. Was glued to TFC. Wish I could be of help. Email me.
Sis. Salvador
Thanks, Sister Salvador. Will do.
That is really true , and that is one of the blessings we receive , in our readings , Sunday School classes , relief society and other programs of the church , also keeping the commandments and humbling ourselves for the Holy Spirit tells us , in our lives , the emotions , feelings , when we hear such news , and I am happy and grateful that my daughter whom I told you one day that she has problems with her heart , no matter what I called , she was not home , she was volunteering in the red cross , is that no great as a mother that you have a daughter dedicated to service whatever the situation .Thanks again for the communication we have . More power to you . Mommy Marci
Thanks Mommy Marci. Love you.
We continue to send our love and prayers to the wonderful people of the Philippines.
-Ralph & Edy Howes
Thank you, Brother Howes.
Hi Cherry,
I am so glad that things are well with you and your family and friends. Thank you for the beautiful post! It really is amazing how sometimes it takes a storm or disaster for many to humble themselves. My family and I are praying for you all who are affected by the floods.
Ysai
Thank you Ysai for your prayers. Love and miss you!
Cherry,
The relief supplies won’t last as merely 20% only of the affected Ward families received it. But there are still ways to extend more our help to them. We started to encourage willing hearts to contribute to the bishop’s storehouse such as used clothings, food, shoes, & blankets so as we could reach out the others specially those living in areas nearby Laguna de Bay which is still underwater. Even the budget for the Yougnwomen activity was used to cook food for the victims and distributed it last Monday.
Youre right, our mere presence in visiting their homes like last Sunday morning hearing their stories really touched our hearts and provide momentary relief to them although we handed a plastic bag of assorted food per family. Some of our brethren,volunteered to cross the neck deep floods at the Arenda area just to be able to visit about 3 families trapped there. Consequently, the welfare council met last Wednesday to discuss urgent matters all with an end view as to how we could be of service to those in need.
Although its a great idea to listen to their pleadings, yet one has to speak out also to envigorate themselves emotionally and do something more to alleviate their sufferings.
Regards,]
Dan
Thanks, Bro. Mendoza.