The toughest year for me

I can say that year 2021 has been the toughest for me and my family. Life trials have knocked me down not once or twice but many times already. But I still managed to rise standing still like a strong tree. My branches may have broken but I know in time it will sprout or branch out where it was broken. I may have experienced the most terrible pain, but I still feel blessed in many ways. I may have lost loved ones but my trust in the Lord remains. I thank God for allowing me to experience his never ending love, guidance, and protection.

Sometimes I come to think, do I deserve all these? Despite my failings and shortcomings God stays faithful to his promises. Sometimes trials come like a thief at night and just take lives of loved ones. They just help us realise how short life is. As much as we can we will always treasure the time being with family, friends and loved ones because time will come that only memories remain. We will not waste time hating but love and care more because time itself is precious.

As we also celebrated All Souls and All Saints Day in November, we remember and give respect to our departed. Together with my husband we visited the graves of our loved ones in different cemeteries where they were laid earlier than usual, because we were worried that some cemeteries would be closed due to pandemic restrictions. We lit candles and prayed that they may all be happily home with Our Father. They are only a prayer away, up above they are watching and guiding over us.

We also pray for the people who are suffering from breast cancer. Cancer is one of the most tormenting illness but nowadays cancer is curable as long as the disease is treated in an early stage with the help of advanced technology.

Also, we make it a habit to pray the Holy Rosary. At first it is hard for me to sit and find time to pray the Rosary but since my mother left, this legacy has been passed on to me. I ask for God’s grace of persistence so I can always endure everything. We ask for continued favour to Mother Mary to always intercede for our prayers to her son, Jesus. We also remember that we are all missionaries of God. May we never get tired bringing the joy of the Gospel wherever we are.