When my ever reluctant, somewhat-rebellious, almost-teen som started singing in the house abot bright, little lanterns and the light within, I know it’s no longer possible for my heart to hold more gratitude than it is already holding. During the community singing of today’s morning circle, Kuya refused to join. During the closing ceremony, I had to urge him and hold him close just to participate in the singing. I knew he wanted to be a part of it but just wanted to let on that he doesn’t care at all. It must be a stage, testosterone talking or what-not. So when we came home and he was singing, I knew today brought me yet another gift — filling up Kuya’s feeling tank.
Today was certainly something. Towards the end of the festival, we had a happy community singing. It was amazing seeing co-Tuburan parents, nurturers, children, guests singing and dancing joyfully. Indeed, all day long we had been creating, nurturing, embracing light. The exchange of smiles, the selfless tool of everyone, the xhildren’s music and poetry were all very uplifting. At one point I thought that while some parts of Mindanao and even the world may seem like cloaked in darkness because of grief, strife, war, injustice, we are, in our own little way is nursing a little spark, keeping darkness at bay.
Today, for a moment, in our own little corner of the world, we upheld the light.
Thank you, God. My heart is more than full. It overflows with gratitude, with Your grace. Thank you for the gift that was today. Salamat, salamat, salamat.
