Jacob, Vince Kenneth S.

BS-IE 5

September 18, 2015

Strong in Faith

For the past three Sundays, weve been visiting San Nicholas GKK in Toril for our
immersion activity for our Theo 141 class. Each class is divided into groups and each
group is assigned to each family. This is to experience a slice of their lives and to see
what its like to look through their eyes even just for a short while.
Our group was merged with another group and we were assigned to the
Abadingo Family. At first, I was kind of hesitant about the whole immersion activity
because it was kind of a waste of my time since there are a lot of requirements in
school. Another thing is, Im not a very people-person so I dont really like to meet
strangers. Then, theres also the fact that I dont speak Bisaya so I fear that I wont be
able to communicate with them well. With all of that being said, I was really thankful that
from the original three, our new group now consists of six members.
However, when we went home with our foster family, I was really happy with
them. They are brothers and sisters living together with their niece. Despite their living
conditions and status, they really welcomed us with open arms and we really felt their
hospitality towards us. They were also very happy to be a part of our immersion journey.
We really learned a lot from them, especially their lifestyles and values. It was a
bittersweet farewell when we bid our goodbyes because it was the last time that we will
see them again.
All of the time when our group were with the family, I was really thinking and
comparing my life to them. They are now old and retired siblings living together. I find it
touching how they sacrificed a part of their lives to take care of their parents and not
being able to get married because of it. And even with their old age, they are still helping
their niece to get through with her education. They are great symbols of selfless love.
Their selflessness makes me reflect about my own life. What if I will also
experience what theyve been through or something more difficult? Knowing myself, I
dont easily give in to lifes struggles but I always doubt myself and my own capabilities.
I always put out a strong and faade in front of my peers. But deep inside, I know that I
have a frail heart to face lifes struggles.
Thats why I really admire the Abadingo siblings. They are pious people and very
active in their GKK. They have strong faith and I believe thats what made them stronger
in life. I hope I can emulate their values and have the same morals. I want my own faith
to God to grow in order to have peace and confidence within myself.