Personal ANNecdotes

As a child, I grew up with the belief that if you want something, you need to work hard in order to achieve it.

Years went on and I continued working hard to reach my endeavors. I studied writing, polished my grammar, enhanced my verbal communication skills and drew a lot because I believed in the power of my dreams. My goal back then was to become an international author.

The years continued passing... I later on realized that sometimes, even if you labor hard and challenged yourself continuously to reach your goals, there will always be stumbling blocks, impeding stones and voices of discouragement both external and internal that will stop you from achieving those dreams.

It came to a point where I lost the fire to push through with the struggle. Maybe, my mind and emotional state were weak back then. Or maybe, I have realized, that sometimes, you need to prioritize other important things before proceeding with your heart's ultimate desires.

When the fire started dwindling, that's when I begun exerting less and least effort in the things I do. From excellent, I have preferred being mediocre because I feared shining and entering the spotlight before people.

But, God shook my spirit and started leading me back to the old warrior stance which I once had as a young girl. I am now a woman and God had filled me with a courageous spirit to awaken the once dwindling fire which contained my dreams, ambitions, goals and desires to serve the community.

The reason for the awakening is something known only to God. But, I have recognized His voice firmly saying, "Go forth, my child. Don't be afraid to shine your light before people."

The world is currently enveloped in darkness. There is so much emptiness, apathy, selfishness, greed and wordly pleasure surrounding its very walls. What people fail to realize is only God can fill the emptiness in one's soul.

When you decide to listen to His voice, you will hear His word through people, surroundings and circumstances.

Challenges are presented to chasten and empower people. They are testing grounds to make us stronger and better equipped for the long battle ahead. Yes, the battle is longer than any human has expected.

• I am far from being the perfect follower. In fact, I cannot call myself a full-fledged Christian because I continue to sin through my words, actions and thoughts. But God indeed, is powerful.

The moment He had chosen you, he will prepare you for the battle and protect you so you can continue with your God-given purpose.

He tells me constantly to fight the lazy spirit within me. The sloth triumphs every now and then especially, during times of exhaustion, grief and lack of self-esteem.

So, I have finally committed myself to fight for my dreams. I have an awesome God who will stand by me in the midst of life's challenges and impeccable blows. I have a Father who will encourage me in the saddest and lowest points of my life.

So, help me Papa Lord God. You are my providence, strength and Savior. Without You, I am nothing.