Visit to Simala for answered prayers

It has become a usual practice to visit the image of Virgin Mary in Lindogon, Simala before the year ends. And probably not only once nor twice but more visits this year as we requested for favors, and these are answered in varying degrees of length of time. And the more answered prayers, the more visits we have in the place.

Once in the place, the very manifestations of answered prayers are the letters, messages, including some memorabilia showing healings, triumphs and successes. And the long queues of devotees right from the main entrance gate up to the very entrance of the towering church is the demonstration of unwavering faith of the devotees.

And for this year, I would like to end with a meaningful visit to the Virgin as my way of showing my deep appreciation for the blessings that my family and I have received.

Gratefulness should not be seen in the light of a cultural dysfunctionality rather than a practice that is culturally ingrained and consistently manifested with a pure intention of gratitude. However, there is a more interesting Filipino culture. This is called "utang na loob" in the Filipino language. This is the debt of gratitude culture in the Philippines. This has been disputed, debunked, and debated by the different sectors of society who are interested in knowing its contribution to the Philippine culture and society as a whole. The debt of gratitude culture simply means that a Filipino's achievement regardless of the size and nature is always attributed to someone or those who have helped him or her.

There are many happenings that we are so grateful for: Another year is added to an octogenarian mother, awards, more offers for artistic undertakings, generally good health, more family bonding with my sisters, nieces and brother-in-law who came home from Canada, new acquaintances, and so many other wonderful moments to us, all the more making us so optimistic for the coming of a new year.

It might be ridiculous why we would also be thankful for things we don't like, or even hate. They don't bring us anything positive, right? Wrong. The things that bother or annoy us in our lives aren't only there to be a burden. These things can have a positive influence on our lives if we let them. Having the right outlook on the things we hate can transform how we see them and make us better individuals.

Gratitude is a central tenet of world religions, with thanks to God offered in prayer and observance. Catholics and other religions have recognized the wonders of a super being that is bringing goodness to men. Specifically Ramadan, for instance, is intended to lead believers to a state of gratitude.

Outside of religion, psychologist Michael McCullough calls gratitude "an evolutionarily beneficial trait, hardwired into the human brain." It benefits both the giver and the receiver. For the receiver, the feeling of being helped, and for the giver, the feeling that one individual has been the recipient of one's goodness and the possibility of doing the same to many others.

But many thinkers agree that gratitude is a rare trait, one that requires cultivation and focus. Another psychologist, Steindl-Rast, offers a simple start: "Grateful living," This can be achieved by "experiencing, by becoming aware that every moment ... is a gift."

And so let's seize every instant as an uncommon gift. And if it is coming from the Almighty, it is all the more precious.

‘And for this year, I would like to end with a meaningful visit

to the Virgin as my way of showing my deep appreciation

for the blessings that my family and I have received.’