I wrote the original (Filipino) version many years ago, for my philo professor, Fr. Roque Ferriols. The english version I wrote recently in a fit of inspiration during the storm Maring that devastated the whole of Metro Manila, the Philippines. I had written it in a fit of inspiration while watching a moth fly near … Continue reading Metamorphosis
Whisperer
Fans do it with celebrities. If you've never been a fan, or if your theology tilts more on the sophisticated side, you might never really understand why people line up to the Nazareno and wipe a part of the image with their handkerchief. A few days ago, I found myself in such an unsophisticated state, lining up with people to touch the worn and darkened mantle at the foot of our Lady of Manaoag.
The Lady At the Grotto Around 12 Midnight (When No One is Watching)
Many people who visit Baguio and the Lady of Lourdes Grotto do not know that the Jesuit Retreat House called Mirador is on top of it. This is where the Jesuits go every summer for villa (vacation) and retreat. This was written many years ago when I saw hundreds of people go up the steps of the Grotto on a particularly busy Saturday. I prayed to Mary just when it was around 12 midnight, no one else was there, and I imagined this scene take place...
Metamorphosis
I remember writing this for Father Roque Ferriols, my Philosophy professor who is known as the Father of Filipino Philosophy. I gave this to him during our oral exams. And we talked about this poem instead of talking about the thesis statements.
Sheep Without a Shepherd
I got struck by the last phrase of the gospel today, “He had compassion over them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd.” What does this mean, to be sheep without a shepherd? It would probably mean being lost—the shepherd gives direction; he leads the sheep to wherever there is grass or wherever it is most safe. It probably means going around in circles— not knowing where to go, just letting your hunger take you to wherever there is food to eat, grass to graze. It would also mean being in constant danger. Being vulnerable to the elements— rain, fire, wind, wild animals, wolves.
Bread and Fish
When I was a Jesuit and assigned to the Ateneo Christian Life Community in Ateneo de Manila, I directed a first year college student named Robbie Paraan for his first 5 Day Retreat. We became good friends afterwards. He eventually became OAC (Over All Coordinator/President) of the organization, graduated from college, and worked in HSBC.
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