Age Matters Less in a Mission

“I’ve been through thick and thin of life. I’ve seen the good and bad sides of this world. So I knew what the works of Mercy that I’ve done and possibly do. All I say to that is “I’m ready”. I’m right here to be a shoulder to cry on, to be an ear to listen and to lend a helping hand for those who need me. I maybe 64 but I’m willing. I’m ready.”

Sis. Amelia C. Dela Peña

Caritas Coordinator
St. Jude Thaddeus Parish
Hiyee!  Happy Father’s Day!

She was there in Leyte.  She was there in Malabog last week in our Medical Mission and I believe she’s the oldest in our team, yet I was awed by her dedication as she took the tasks of preparing the giveaways and in feeding hundreds of beneficiaries.  So let my Father’s Day letter set this space next week, as I give the chance for her letter.

Dear KNOT,

I never knew that at my age and time, I would be able to make a difference, even a little one. I just assumed that I was past my glory days. That I would be able to make lives better. I was wrong. I’m 64 and still making a difference.

Now, don’t get off yourselves. I didn’t discover a new atomic particle. I didn’t solve the problem of hunger, not even the national problem to corruption. No, I didn’t do anything big. But I would like to believe that I did something not even most rich people, geniuses or politicians do. I answer to a cry for help.

Most of you already know that of the Visayan region of the Philippines was tragically hit by super typhoon Yolanda. The effect of the typhoon did not limit to some parts of Visayas. It affected our whole country. Maybe not physically, but emotionally, it did. Hundreds of lives were lost whether young or old, rich or poor, healthy or not. But those lucky enough to survive, still suffer with mental trauma or trying to cope with the tragic loss of their loved ones or loss of their homes. That’s where I stepped in.

We were a team, helping all the victims as best as we can. Now I can tell you the whole story but trust me, what you need to know in these next few words.

Not knowing what was ahead of me terrified me. But I pushed that feeling aside because I was not doing for my own personal gain, everything I did and am doing is for the glory of God.

That experience opened my eyes to a whole new world. I can speak for myself, but that feeling of fulfillment crept on me the second time I saw that grateful smile from the survivors.  It was like He telling me a silent “Thank You.”

From that moment on, I knew that the journey was worth it. That everything I did just to get there was worth it. Simply put it this way. I was happy. Every single time I look back at that memory that time where I was able to make a difference in another person’s life, my heart grows ten times bigger.-Ate Amie

Salamat Ate Amie.  You are a great team mate with a pure soul.

Let us tie that KNOT. Keep those stories of faith coming via desk@davaocatholicherald.com or drop by our office at San Pablo Church Compound, Juna Subd., Matina, Davao City.    Follow us on Twitter @dcherald, @ChengVilog.  ‘Til next k’wentuhan Higala!