Lifechanging

“In life, there are only so many things one can witness that would be so overwhelming, so lifechanging that even though not everybody would remember how it happened, the feelings will always be real, always be unchanged…”

- excerpt from Redkinoko’s The Final Post

     I had, without a doubt, the most memorable weekend I have ever spent with James thus far.  Even now, a few days later, everything that has transpired is still wrapped in a veil of surreality, such that there are moments wherein I find what has happened hard to believe.  But as clearly as a placid lake in the middle of summer, I find the poignant truth of it all staring back at me.  And in the truth, I find happiness beyond words.

Faith

     James is a Southern Baptist.  I am a Roman Catholic.  And yet, our religious differences have never been a point of contention in our relationship.  Both of us understand that we each have our own devotion to the faith that we have, and what is important would be that we cultivate a good relationship with the Lord.  I have tried to learn as much as I can about James’ faith, both by reading about it and by asking James about it.  I have learned and I have understood.

     Commitment Day at Harvestfield Baptist Church was beyond anything I have expected.  I have asked James about the program, and yet, instead of the praise, worship, and sharing that I have expected, I have experienced something far more.  An awakening… a deeper understanding… and somehow, a shifting of spirit that is so gradual.  I have found myself being moved to tears towards the end of the program, and indeed I felt that I have been touched and blessed in profound ways.

     Sunday Service was also an eye-opening and heart-opening experience for me.  Listening and imbibing the words of God while in the presence of people who so emotionally and unabashedly proclaim their faith gave me such strong spiritual nourishment.  It was exhilirating.  And after the service I felt so grateful when people came to approach me and give me a hug or shake my hand.  I felt such a strong sense of community and I felt so welcome.  In a way, it felt like finding my way home.

     I have committed my life to the Lord’s will.  There are matters that I would still need to firmly decide about my faith.  And I want to come to that decision for the right reasons.  James and I have talked about this and I’m so glad he understands.  Most of all, I’m thankful because I know that God understands.  I know that He would guide me, for He is always with me.  As He is with all His faithful children.

Family

     My family has always been my biggest source of motivation.  I consider myself blessed to have a family that is supportive of all I endeavor to do; a family that guides me gently while I find my own way.  I love my family dearly and I never would embark on anything without gaining their confidence, thoughts, and insights.

     When I started my relationship with James, I instinctively knew that my family would love him.  He was, in each and every way, a personification of the ideal.  And true enough, my friends and family merely had to have a single conversation with him to know that he was everything I told them he would be.

     Conversely though, I have expected that it would not be as easy for me to be accepted by James’ family.  Yet, I have been blessed, time and again, to have been so unexpectedly welcomed into their home.  I have been accomodated and welcomed without reserve, given insightful advise about life and relationships, and included in gatherings that are of importance.

     On Sunday, after attending church, we all went to Mall of Asia to stroll for a while and have lunch together.  After that, Tito Melchor insisted on taking me home to Imus.  It took us just an hour to get to my home and James’ entire family met my family.  It was a meaningful time for both James and me.

     I thank the Lord for allowing me to be close to the circle of a God-centric and caring family.  And my heart whispers profound thanks to Tito Melchor, Tita Jocelyn, Lola Inang, Jon, and Joseph for being the wonderful people that they are, and to James for allowing me to meet his wonderful family.

Forever

     Words would never be enough to describe the blissful elation that you made me feel this weekend, James.  But then again, you always make me feel immensely happy and deeply loved.  I never expected it, hence the surprise and the fear.  But these have long since been replaced by a profound peace and unshakeable security.

     You have changed my life from the moment we’ve met, more so when we decided to start a relationship.  But your promise last Saturday, more than anything else, has defined a path that is more beautiful than anything I could wish for.  Thank you, my angel, for giving me far more than I ever thought possible.  And with this, I promise you the same things you promised with equal ardour, boundless commitment, and infinite love.