Pandesal

    After arriving yesterday from my flight here in Toronto, I was welcomed by unexpected visitors whom I considered treasured relationships in my life Bene, Jomz, Marie, and Joven. We had decent discussions and laughter about my experiences there. It seems like a fresh breath after seeing them and feeling the Durante family's belongingness again. I was caught off guard when I heard Joven's question directed toward me. "Bro, what is one thing that you learn from this vacation?" I appreciate the question and I believe it should be the paradigm of every person who had undergone the moment of vacation.
    A series of thoughts appeared in my mind but only one word stood out: Family. I was delighted to spend most of my 5 weeks' time with my parents, and relatives. Before, every time I visit the Philippines, I aimed to maximize my limited time with colleagues and other people from the community of faith. I attempted to fill up my schedule quickly. If I don't do it, I feel like I'm wasting my precious time if I don't meet someone. Every day must be an appointment with someone.
    “‘Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may go well with you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.'"1 - Deuteronomy 5:16
    Then I came to my senses when I realized I wasn't able to spend much time with my parents for almost the past two years during my schooling in Toronto. In the past, at one point our pastor asked me if I spend time with my father. That question alone is not only a reminder but also served as a teaching moment in my growth as a person and son of God.


Footnotes:

1 Openbible. https://www.openbible.info/topics/honor_thy_father_and_thy_mother (Accessed June 25, 2023)

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