Sometimes when a trial strikes, it will just blow us up in no definite direction. It really will twirl life and mess up everything.
I just do not know how and where to start my story but I can say that this is one of the worst things that has happened in my life. It was like my world collapsed in no time. I just didn’t know what to do when my mother and brother felt unwell and had the Covid-19 coronavirus symptoms at the same time. My elder brother had a positive result after a swab testing. Since my mother likewise felt unwell, almost lost consciousness, we rushed her to the hospital. The next day my brother was also admitted to the same hospital where my mother was.
My heart bled in pain and agony, leaving my mother and brother in the hospital with no family members to tend to them. I was pulled-out of the hospital vicinity since I was in close contact with my mother who was tested positive. I also experienced some symptoms like losing my sense of taste and smell.
Later, I too was tested positive.
My heart wanted to explode for all the pains. I could hardly walk. I could feel the weight of the world on my shoulders. My mind was overwhelmed with worries. I felt I was not in my senses anymore.
The situation inside the hospital was worse. We just did not know what happened next but I can say it was all God’s work. God was helping us out, carrying us through when we are all weak, helpless, shaken, tired and empty. I prayed to God, begging his mercy.
There were times when I did not know what to say or pray, without a word only tears filling up my eyes. After all we were not forsaken by God because he used other people to extend help in many ways. Maybe sometimes I could not hear God’s voice because I was entertaining the noise of the world. I could not see him because I focussed on the problems. I could not feel his embrace because I was so troubled and afraid.
All that was left inside me was my faith and the faith of my family that God is never deaf and blind to all our sufferings. We believe that after the darkest and strongest storm God’s faithfulness will shine. I know God will never allow trials such as this when he knows we cannot handle. His plans maybe hard to understand but we just trust his ways. In trials we can see God’s blessings in many forms and ways. In trials we see the opportunity to strenghten and increase our faith.
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
May my sharing help those who also go through tough times.
We pray that this pandemic will come to end as it has brought so much sufferings to the world. I thank you Lord for always allowing my story to be heard. May I give back all the glory, honour and praise to your holy name. Amen.
Lynn Salinas-Batoliño
The Philippines
Note: Batolino’s mother, Marina Salinas, passed away on July 23, a few days after her daughter sent this article.
Sunday Examiner would like to offer our condolences.
Let’s pray for her departed soul.
Batolino and her brother are recovering well and thank the readers for their prayers.
