On September 21, after a long wait, I received my first dose of Covid-19 vaccine in our district hospital. This is also the unforgetable date in Philippine history when the late president Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law. The dictatorial time has also marked the deep faith, love for freedom, bravery and resiliency of Filipinos. It has created many painful stories and memories especially for the older generations who have experienced the cruelty of Martial Law.
Anyway, it all happened in the past, and has become part of our country’s dark history.
A history we do not want or like to happen in the future, especially now that we are looking forward to our upcoming national and local elections. We will vote according to our conscience. I hope and pray this time we are now wise and smart enough to choose our leaders. A leader who genuinely and sincerely love to serve the country and the Filipino people and do not take advantage of their positions for their personal gain of money, power and influence. And, above all, leaders who fear God. Public office is all about service.
Anyway, I was excited to get my first dose of Covid-19 vaccine. For a Covid-19 victim and survivor like me vaccine is very important to get protection. I know and understand well the misery it has caused my family and many families around the world. We have been scattered and separated due to quarantine and isolation but never divided. The love of family will always bring us closer in this trying time of pandemic.
Despite the Covid surge in our province, the vaccine roll-out seems very slow. We can only help end this pandemic if people get vaccinated and follow health protocols. Still, we do not know where our enemy is.
A tiny virus can create vast chaos and destruction. But at the same time, a faith of a mustard seed can change the world. We untiringly pray to God to help us end this pandemic and to help life get back to normal in near time. Only our faith in God can free us from all our fears, worries and anxiety and can give us the protection and provisions we need in an uncertain world. All we do is put our trust in the merciful God.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
Lynn Salinas-Batoliño
The Philippines
