Time to Reconcile and Love

Retreat may mean to withdraw from the war or end and pull back or pull out the troops being deployed in the war.

Last March 24-25, I had my retreat together with my batch mates. Not to retreat because I joined in a war and have to retreat because I lack ammunitions, but to reflect on myself and think about it. In the morning of March 24, I had to go to UP first because there were sets of activities which were held there. Just like the “Positive Stroking” activity, although I already experienced one when I had my camp, but I could not help it, tears started to flow from my eyes. It was a nice activity because it really made me happy because it made me realized how I was appreciated by my batch mates and classmates, and it also showed how we appreciated each other’s presence in our lives as high school students. I took my lunch at Brown Gates since the hired jitneys were not yet there. After 30 minutes, the jitneys arrived and at around 1:30 PM, I departed together with the group, to the retreat venue. The place was very peaceful since it is away from the main road. The road in going there was just like that of a roller coaster because it really is an up and down.

When I arrived there, I was amazed with the place, because it was big and wonderful. One of the sisters there showed us where the girls’ quarters are and I immediately arranged my things there. Our country is not the biggest but at least, we all fit in. I enjoyed my room mates since they are my friends. After sometime, we had to go to the session hall to listen to the series of talks prepared for us. I was able to attend an adoration session and was able to confess my sins. I learned so many things and even reconciled with my friends whom I had a small fight with. All of the reconciliation and all those other stuffs during the night, when we were about to sleep, the last activity for that day. We were given candles and we have to give it to someone whom we have offended and ask for an apology. I did it and was able to be forgiven. I slept and had only very short hours of rest because I have to wake up early to take a bath and prepare for that Sunday’s departure. I had my breakfast at the dining area of the vicinity and had a very beautiful time. I went back to my quarter and got my bible and went to the session hall for a short activity and a bible sharing. After the bible sharing, I attended the mass, and after which, I packed up my things and prepared for our departure.

I left the area with my heart with a less burden left. I was happy that I was given an opportunity to experience such activity because I now do not have to worry about things. And learned so many things that will be applicable to my future undertakings in life.