A Voice from Bicol

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MARY GRACE CARBAYAR

I left my hometown, Camarines Sur, Bicol, to find a job in Manila to support my family. I have been separated from my husband for a few years now. We have three daughters, namely, Frenchy, 17, Fiona, 15, and Hershey, 12.

I applied as an office clerk or bookkeeper in Manila. While waiting for the results of my application, my father offered me a job. His employer needed a housekeeper. At first, I was very hesitant. It was not the kind of job I wanted.  But since there was yet no other job available at the time and I needed the money, I accepted the offer.

With my salary, I can continue to raise my three children alone. I managed to get a house for them in Pasig, Metro Manila. One of the skills I learned in my job is to drive a car. I learned many things that I know would not have happened if I had not taken the job.

My Prayer Group

But the most important thing I am thankful for is when I joined “Ang Pamilya ng Diyos.” This is a small prayer group that holds a weekly meeting conducted by a friend of my employer. The members of the group are the two employers with their household help and drivers. These sessions not only helped me personally grow as a human being but also helped me grow spiritually.

Recently, I became aware that everything happens for a reason. That no matter how I plan or want my life to be, I cannot control things. It is not, I realized, a matter of making decisions for my family and myself. I learned that there are a deeper meaning and purpose for me in this life.

God allows things to happen in one’s life for a reason. He lets things happen to give us a chance to choose him and always be on his path.

Just like this coronavirus pandemic. God allowed it to happen. Maybe, it forces us to look at who we really are. Or perhaps who and what we ought to be. To find the time to think is already a gift. As for me, a much greater gift is knowing that I am living my life following God’s will and purpose.

4 COMMENTS

  1. May God bless you more Mary Grace, as you continue to trust Him and walk His path.
    Beautiful sharing!

  2. Thank you for your inspiring voice, Mary Grace, which resounds for all of us who follow the path of God’s will!

  3. Mary Grace, thank you for sharing. Yes, God is always in control. May you continue to be blessed as you keep the faith and walk in His ways!

  4. Mary Grace is a blessing given by God to all whose path she crosses. Let us pray that she remains true to her calling. Thank you Mary Grace.

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