Giving up complete independence

Many times we depend on others completely. We expect the jeepney driver to bring us safely to our destination. We trust the chef who prepares our food at eating places to give us sanitary food to enjoy. We trust the mentors in our schools to teach our kids the right values. We trust our nannies to keep the children clean, fed and safe while we are at work. There are still so many examples to our being dependent on people.

For senior citizens, many of us are now dependent financially on our children. We feel squeamish about being a burden but we have no choice if we want to get well. No amount of “we love you mommy and it’s time we took care of you” can assuage the fact that we are an extra item on their budget. We are very grateful for their generosity though but the fact remains that we feel that they have to stretch their budgets to help us out. Somehow the Good Lord is teaching us to forget our pride and accept the fact that we have to learn how to receive.

Today, we also have to trust our leaders in the manner they run the government and pray for guidance from the Holy Spirit. We are worried about the declaration of martial law in Mindanao. We do not see the whole picture and neither do we see the whole plan. We can only hope that such plans are not just a one man-made plan. We know the discussions and the objections that will result from such a declaration. Let us pray that the Marcos-era does not return.

Our kasambahay depend on us for their salaries and their families depend on them for their sustenance. This interdependence we have on each other is often considered a part of an ongoing system which everyone takes for granted.

In each family, Dad takes care of bringing home the bread. Mom takes care of fixing the home. The grown-up kids help mom in running the house and the infants and very young ones depend on Mom and Dad for all their needs. Being aware and mindful of how much help we get from others is one way of helping us serve others too.

Our caregivers bear the brunt of our needs and they too spend sleepless nights with us as we lie and toss in bed.

We have many things that we take for granted but it is good to be reminded that we are not alone and that there are others who serve us. They do it in silence and without much public appreciation.

To the silent and humble people who take care of us, receive our gratitude and appreciation. We are grateful for your presence.