After a last-minute decision, with no spare clothes or any other preparation, Esther, Elsa and I went to Alubijod, Guimaras Island.
The timing of our arrival at Pulupandan Pier was God-given in our opinion. Good people guided us and served as angels in our journey – Bert, Ray, Kyle and Danny.
On our way to our destination, we went “back riding” (on motorcycles) for the first time. It was only after the trip that we realized the risks we took, especially in riding that way (riding at the back of motorcycles, on roads that were rarely paved and were most often sloping). But the risks were worth it! And given the second chance, I’m almost sure we’d do it again.
At Himala, Barangay Sibunag, we witnessed a spectacular sunset. (I was glad we captured it on film). I was glad I didn’t miss the silhouette of the tree set apart from the rest, somewhat bowing to the left with branches surrendering to the glaring orange sky.
Indeed, the peace of the place, especially upon arriving at Barangay Sebaste was striking. No loud stereos, no television sets – just the soft rustling of leaves and the sweet chirping of birds now and then.
At Rayment Resort, where got lodging for the night, the sound of the waves by the sea was soothing to the soul.
Meanwhile, stars in the morning of the next day have never been so brilliant! I think I’ve never seen so many stars in my life. I will always remember those stars, especially the one that guided us to and from Alubijod. I’ve seen an especially bright star right after sunset before we arrived at the resort, and right before sunrise before we left! And this early dawn, aside from the stars was the ringing of church bells nearby, as if announcing another blessed day…
Sunrise at Sebaste was magnificent! It was glorious as the sun peeped slowly from Mt. Kanlaon.
It was a new day, indeed, and we were persuaded to visit Ususan Island before we finally leave. Picking up shells while circling around the small island was therapeutic to the soul.
We were not prepared to go for that trip, but God has provided us with everything we needed!
The thing about hope is that it’s a positive force that shines the most when it’s dark. When everything’s going well, we hardly notice it’s there. But when things go against us, when our dreams fade and when we see no immediate reprieve from our troubles, that’s when hope does its best work for us.
"Where Hope Can Be Found"